The purpose of this prep is to clean your colon. The cleaner your colon is prior to your exam, the more likely we are to locate any abnormalities.
Ensure a safe and effective colon prep by following these instructions exactly as directed below.
- At first appointment tell your doctor if you are taking any blood thinner/coagulant medications other than aspirin.
Several days before procedure:
- Pick up prescription for Nulytely at pharmacy and 9 Dulcolax (Bisacodyl) 5 mg laxative tablets. No prescription needed.
- It is very important that you remain well hydrated for a number of days prior to and after the procedure. Gatorade or sports drinks will result in better hydration than drinking just water alone.
Three days before procedure:
- Avoid corn, popcorn, and foods with seeds, nuts, and raw vegetables.
Two days before procedure:
- Take 3 Dulcolax (Bisacodyl)) laxative tablets at bedtime.
- Start a full liquid diet for 24 hours. In addition to clear liquid diet below, consume only:
- Cream Soups
- Eggs
- Custards
- Ice Milk
- Milk Shakes
- White Bread, Plain or Toasted (no whole/multi-grain products)
Day before / 24 hours before procedure:
- Start a clear diet. No red, orange, blue, or purple foods or drinks. Consume only:
- Broth
- Italian Ice (with no fruit pieces) / Popsicles
- Jell-O
- Water
- Black Tea/Coffee (No Milk or Cream)
- Soda
- Crystal Light
- Hard Candy
- Fruit Juice without Pulp
- White Grape Juice
- Gatorade / Sport Drinks
- Apple Juice
- After waking in morning drink at least 8 oz. (1 large glass) of clear liquids every hour until you go to bed.
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Prepare Nulytely solution in the morning by adding approximately 4 Quarts of HOT tap water to the fill line on the container. Shake repeatedly to be sure the powder is completely dissolved. Place in refrigerator to cool.
3:00 pm day before procedure:
Take 3 Dulcolax (Bisacodyl)) laxative tablets.
5:00 pm day before procedure:
Take 3 Dulcolax (Bisacodyl)) laxative tablets.
7:00 pm day before procedure:
- Start drinking 8 oz. (large glass) of Nulytely every 10 minutes. Drink each cup quickly without gulping, do not sip. In about 30 minutes you will probably feel the need to move your bowels.
- Continue drinking a large glass every 10 minutes for 1⁄2 hour, after the bowel movements become clear of solid particles, or all of the solution has been drunk.
- If your bowels have not moved after 1 hour (or six cups) wait until the first movement and then continue drinking.
- You may experience a bloated sensation, but cramping or other discomfort is quite uncommon. Many patients find it most convenient to drink the solution while sitting on the toilet once the bowels start to move.
Three hours before procedure:
- Nothing further by mouth, with the exception of any medications. Medications may be taken with small sips of water.
Day of procedure:
- You will need a ride home from the hospital. Hospital policy requires a responsible person over the age 18 to provide transportation after your procedure. No taxis or public transportation acceptable. Failure to comply may result in cancellation of procedure.
- Drink at least 6 more 8 oz. glasses of clear liquid prior to bedtime.
Day following procedure:
- May begin driving or operating machinery.