Preparing For Your Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is one of the most important tools for preventing and detecting colorectal cancer. A clean colon helps your provider clearly see the lining of your intestine and identify any polyps, inflammation or abnormalities. For your provider to get a clear view, your colon must be free of stool or residue. Even small amounts can hide polyps or require your exam to be rescheduled. Early detection can save lives.

Proper preparation ensures the best possible results and may prevent delays or repeat procedures. At MercyOne, our goal is to make your preparation as easy and stress free as possible so you feel confident and ready for your procedure.

Colonoscopy Prep Instructions

  • Stop taking oral iron supplements or multivitamins with iron. These can darken the colon and reduce visibility.
  • If you take diabetes medications or injectable GLP 1, you may need adjustments. 
  • If you take blood thinners, talk with the prescribing provider and your MercyOne GI specialist to determine when it is safe to pause these medications. 
  • Make sure your MercyOne care team is aware of any heart stents (placed within 1 year), prosthetic heart valves, pacemaker or defibrillator—additional clearance may be needed.

Begin a low fiber diet and eat

foods like:

  • White bread
  • White rice
  • Pasta
  • Eggs
  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Bananas
  • Cooked vegetables

Avoid foods that slow digestion, such as:

  • Nuts
  • Beans
  • Popcorn
  • Seeds (tomatoes, strawberries, raspberries)
  • Fruits with peel or pulp (oranges, kiwi, apples)
  • Whole grains
  • Corn
  • Raw vegetables and leafy greens (kale, lettuce, spinach)

You will follow a clear liquid diet only, which may include:

  • Water
  • Chicken or beef broth
  • Apple juice
  • Jell O (no red or purple)
  • Gatorade (no red or purple)
  • Coffee or tea (no creamer)
  • Apple juice or white grape juice
  • Clear sodas like Sprite or 7 Up
  • Popsicles

DO NOT Consume:

  • Solid foods
  • Dairy products
  • Red, blue or purple liquids

Before you arrive, remember the following:

  • Follow your fasting instructions
  • Bring your Photo ID
  • Bring your Insurance Card
  • Bring your Medication List
  • Bring a responsible adult driver. You will not be permitted to drive after receiving sedating medications for the procedure.

Your provider will prescribe a bowel prep solutions used to clean the colon. Follow the MercyOne instructions you'll receive from your provider, not the label on the bottle.

You may also be asked to purchase simethicone. This reduces bubbles in the colon and improves visibility.

Prep Timeline

Evening Before (Around 6 p.m.)

Begin drinking the first half of your bowel prep solution:

  • Drink 8 oz every 10–15 minutes until half of the solution is gone.
  • If your prep includes a Bisacodyl tablet, take it before drinking the solution.  
  • Tips to make prep easier:
    • Drink through a straw placed toward the back of your mouth
    • Drink prep chilled
    • Suck on hard candy between glasses (do not chew or swallow the candy)
    • Wear warm clothes if you feel cold
    • Walk around to ease cramping

Early Morning of Your Procedure (Around 2 a.m.)

Drink the second half of your prep solution:

  • Same instructions: 8 oz every 10–15 minutes until completed.
  • Your stool should become clear or yellow tinged liquid. If you still see brown particles or solid stool, you may need an enema before the procedure—notify your nurse when you arrive.

Day of Your Procedure

  • Take only medications approved by your provider with a small sip of water.
  • Do not eat or drink anything for two hours before the exam. Your colonoscopy may be canceled if you do.  
  • Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home. Sedation from the procedure prevents you from driving.  

 

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.

If you need clarification about your prep, please contact your MercyOne gastroenterology care location. Our team is here to support you at every step. Please call 515-247-3266 with any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. A responsible adult driver is required. They must remain available during your procedure and drive you home afterward.

Follow the liquid cutoff instructions in your prep guide. Timing varies depending on your procedure and sedation type.

Contact the provider managing your diabetes medications for instructions regarding insulin and oral diabetic medications before your procedure.

Your care team will coordinate with the prescribing provider regarding medication management before your procedure.