Preparing You for Endoscopy
Please provide accurate and thorough information when you complete your medical history form, including your surgical history and any known allergies. This information helps us deliver safe, quality care to you. After your procedure, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand, as a result of the medication. Please let us know if you need any assistance to reduce your risk of falling. We are happy to review your results with you again if you do not understand or remember them the first time. And, before you leave, please make sure you and your driver understand the discharge instructions.
Common Questions
Most procedures last between 15 and 45 minutes. Some may take less time and others may take longer. Recovery time is approximately one hour. During your recovery we monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level to make sure they return to pre-procedure levels. Before you are discharged we make sure you feel comfortable and are ready to go home.
The medication that you are given for the test will help to make you comfortable. It is a combination of a narcotic (medication for pain) and a sedative (medication to relax). You will most likely be very relaxed or, possibly, sleeping. If you are uncomfortable, please let us know.
People have different tolerance levels to the medication. Because the medication we use during the procedure stays in your system for a few hours, you are instructed not to drive, drink alcohol, work, sign papers or contracts, or be alone for the rest of the day. We encourage you to take it easy and relax.
Yes. Either the nurse or physician will go over your test results, discharge instructions, and physician recommendations with you before you go home.
There are several physicians performing procedures in different rooms in our Unit. Each physician works at a different pace and some procedures may take longer than others. We will call your name as soon as your physician is available. Thank you for your patience.
What to Expect
Your safety and your satisfaction are our #1 priority. One of our primary goals is to make every step of your endoscopy as efficient as possible.
Prior to Your Visit
Please be prepared to tell us the following information to ensure your procedure goes as smoothly and as safely as possible.
- Current medication list
- List of allergies and medical/surgical history
- Insurance card(s)
- Photo ID
- A list of questions you or family members may have
What to Bring
Please bring your insurance information and social security number with you on the day of your procedure. If your insurance requires a co-payment, it should be paid at the time of service.
After Your Procedure
You must have a responsible adult with you when you are discharged. This person needs to hear your discharge instructions, sign them, and drive you home. A taxi is not an acceptable ride unless you have a responsible adult with you. For your safety, you must have someone stay with you for the remainder of the day.