What happens during colonoscopy? Prior to the procedure, an intravenous catheter (IV) will be placed in a vein in your arm. Females of childbearing age may be asked to undergo a pregnancy test. Medicine (sedation) will be injected to help you feel relaxed and sleepy.

Is a catheter inserted during colonoscopy?

What happens during colonoscopy? Prior to the procedure, an intravenous catheter (IV) will be placed in a vein in your arm. Females of childbearing age may be asked to undergo a pregnancy test. Medicine (sedation) will be injected to help you feel relaxed and sleepy.

How is the tube inserted for a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is a procedure a doctor uses to look at the inside of the colon and rectum with a colonoscope, which is a long, flexible tube about the width of a finger with a light and small video camera on the end. It’s put in through the anus and into the rectum and colon.

Where is IV inserted for colonoscopy?

When you arrive the day of your colonoscopy, an IV will be placed into your arm or hand. Your medical history will be reviewed and you will have an opportunity to speak with your physician prior to starting the test. A specially trained endoscopy nurse will administer medications to induce relaxation.

Do you get IV fluids during colonoscopy?

Your nurse will start an intravenous (IV) line in your vein. The IV provides you with sedation and pain medications during the procedure. (For more information about medications, see the other side of this handout.) Additionally, your nurse will monitor your blood pressure and oxygen.

How many days off do you need for a colonoscopy?

Take the day off: It is recommended that you take the day off work on the day of your procedure. You should not make any important decisions for the rest of the day following the procedure. You should not drive for the rest of the day. Pick up your prep at least three to five days before your procedure.

How long does a colonoscopy take from start to finish?

The camera sends images to an external monitor so that the doctor can study the inside of your colon. The doctor can also insert instruments through the channel to take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps or other areas of abnormal tissue. A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Are you put to sleep for a colonoscopy procedure?

You won’t be completely unconscious, but you’ll sleep through the procedure and probably have no memory of it. The medication commonly used for deep sedation is propofol, which is not an opioid. It acts fast, wears off quickly, and is safe for most patients.

How far does a colonoscopy go into the colon?

A colonoscopy allows an examination of the entire colon (1200–1500 mm in length).

Can you wake up during a colonoscopy?

There are a few options for the use of sedation during a colonoscopy, including: Light: The patient is relaxed and sleepy, but most likely awake. The patient can respond to the doctor, follow any instructions, and may feel pain or discomfort. Moderate: The patient is drowsy and may go in and out of sleep.