What preparations are necessary before undergoing a gastroscopy and colonoscopy?

Preparation for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Prior to undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy, adequate preparation is crucial to ensure the smooth conduct of the examination and the safety and health of the patient. The following provides detailed preparation suggestions encompassing dietary, clothing, psychological, and other aspects.

Dietary Preparation

1. Fasting and Water Restriction: Starting from 9-10 pm the night before the endoscopy, refrain from eating solid food, but water is allowed. Maintain fasting and water restriction upon waking on the day of the exam to ensure an empty stomach for better visualization.
2. Light Diet: For three days before the exam, opt for a light diet, avoiding spicy, greasy, cold, or other irritant foods to minimize gastrointestinal stimulation.
3. Residue-Free Diet: Ideally, consume residue-free or low-residue foods such as white rice porridge, noodles, steamed eggs, and tofu the day before the endoscopy. Avoid high-fiber foods like whole grains, vegetables, and fruits, as they may hinder the examination view.
4. Low-Residue Diet: For 1-3 days before colonoscopy, depending on constipation, adopt a low-residue or low-fiber diet to enhance bowel preparation cleanliness.
5. Laxative Administration: Follow medical instructions to take laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution, the night before and on the day of colonoscopy to facilitate the evacuation of feces and food residue. Drink plenty of water after medication to promote bowel movements until clear, residue-free stool is expelled.

Clothing Preparation

1. Loose-Fitting Clothing: Wear loose, easy-to-remove clothing. Avoid one-piece outfits, tight clothing, or valuable garments to prevent contamination or difficulty in removal during the procedure.
2. Dark Clothing: Given the potential for intestinal secretions, wear dark-colored tops and pants to minimize clothing staining.
3. Spare Clothing: Prepare a set of spare clothing in case of minimal intestinal secretions post-colonoscopy.

Psychological Preparation

1. Maintain Calmness: Some patients may experience anxiety due to concerns about discomfort or test results. Practices like deep breathing, listening to soothing music, or communicating with family and friends can help relax and maintain a peaceful mindset.
2. Understand the Procedure: Knowing the endoscopy process and precautions in advance can alleviate anxiety. Consult healthcare professionals for any queries.

Other Preparations

1. Medication Discontinuation: Follow medical advice to discontinue anticoagulant drugs, traditional Chinese medicines for blood circulation promotion, etc., to prevent complications like bleeding during the exam. Inform doctors and adjust insulin or other hypoglycemic medication schedules accordingly.
2. Disclose Allergies: Inform healthcare staff of drug allergies and other special conditions to ensure safety measures are taken during the exam.
3. Bring Medical Records: Carry previous medical records and test reports to aid doctors in understanding your medical history and condition, thereby facilitating a suitable examination plan.

By implementing these preparation measures, patients can undergo gastrointestinal endoscopy smoothly, with timely prevention and management of potential issues, ensuring their health and safety.