MELISSA TEO SURGERY &
THE SURGICAL ONCOLOGY CLINIC
PATIENT EDUCATION GUIDE
Preparing for your Colonoscopy
A clear, step-by-step guide to bowel preparation at home - so your procedure goes smoothly and your doctor gets the best view possible.
Why Bowel Prep Matters
Proper preparation ensures your doctor can see your colon clearly - and may prevent you from needing to repeat the procedure.
3 Days Before
Adjust your Diet
Switch to a low-fiber diet. Avoid nuts, seeds, raw vegetables, and high fiber foods. This reduces the amount of residue in your colon.
Evening Before
Drink the Prep Solution
If possible, keep to a low fibre diet all day. Stay well hydrated with water, clear broths and approved drinks.
Day of Procedure
Nothing by Mouth (NBM)
Stop all fluids at least 6 hours before your procedure. Arrive rested and with a companion to drive you home
What to Eat & Avoid
Follow this eating guide starting 3 days before your procedure, transitioning to a light diet the day before.
3 Days Before : Low-Fiber Diet
Eat These
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White bread, white rice
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Pasta ( no whole wheat )
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Eggs and tofu
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Lean meat, chicken, fish
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Well-cooked vegetables ( no skin )
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Dairy : milk, yogurt ( plain )
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Clear soups and broth
Avoid These
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Whole grains, bran cereals
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Raw vegetables and salad
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Nuts, seeds, popcorn
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Beans and lentils
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Dried or fresh fruit with seeds
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High-fiber snack bars
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Red or purple dyed foods
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Alcohol
7-10 days before the procedure
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stop any blood thinning medications you may be on. Your doctor will be able to advise you on this.
The evening before your Procedure
Day of Procedure
Your colon should now be clear. Here's what to expect and how to prepare for the scopes.
Don't worry, you got this!
Morning
NBM - Nothing by mouth
Stop all fluids at least 6 hours before your procedure. Do not chew gum or eat mints.
Medications
Take approved Medications Only
If you are on high blood pressure medication, you should take the medication at 6am with a small sip of water.
If you are on blood thinners, iron, and diabetes medications, please remember to stop them as instructed in advance
Before Leaving Home
Get Ready to Go
Shower (avoid lotions and purfumes). Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. Remove nail polish and jewelry. Bring your insurance card and a list of your usual medications. Confirm your mode of transport home.
At the Facility
Arrive 60-90 mins early
Check in, complete paperwork, and speak with your nurse about your prep experience. You will receive IV sedation, which will ensure that you are comfortable and - ill not feel pain. The procedure typically takes 30-45mins.
After the Procedure
Recovery and Going Home
You will wake up in the recovery area. Expect some gas and bloating - this is normal. It is advisable to have someone come and pick you and bring you home. Do not drive or sign legal documents for 24 hours after sedation.
FAQ
1. What time should I start drinking the bowel prep?
It is best to keep to a light diet for the whole day before your scopes. After a light dinner at about 5-6pm, you can start your bowel prep medications. The medication will take about 1-2 hours to work. Drink plenty of fluids after taking the bowel prep.
2. I feel like throwing up after taking the prep. What should I do?
Patients often feel nauseated because they take the prep too quickly. There is no need to rush the drinking, so slow down the speed of your drinking the prep.
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The taste of the bowel prep can also cause nausea. If you would like, you can add any flavoured cordial i.e. ribena to the bowel prep solution to make it more palatable.
3. I drank up all my bowel preparation but have not gone to the toilet after 2 hours! What should I do?
It is not uncommon for some patients to experience slower effect to the bowel preparation. In this case, you would have been given a fleet enema which you can now administer in order for you to kick start your bowel purge.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions. Please contact us if you experience: Severe abdominal pain . Bloating that doesn't improve. No bowel movements 3+ hours after starting the prep. Blood in stool.
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Please call us at Tel: 62624301(Mount Elizabeth Novena) / 66947107(Farrer Park) if you have any queries.