General Instructions for Endoscopy Procedures

Plan Ahead

• Notify your doctor of any change in your medical conditions, or if you develop an illness or fever.
• Confirm which medications you should take the day of your procedure. Medications such as blood thinners, aspirin, or medication containing aspirin may need to be stopped temporarily.
• Follow any dietary instructions provided by your physician. Most procedures require that you have nothing to eat or drink after midnight on the day of your procedure.

• Complete the necessary forms and have them ready to bring with you.
• Arrange to have someone who drive you to and from the hospital. Make sure your driver knows how to get to Highland Hospital and parks in the North Lot. Get directions.
• Plan to wear comfortable clothing that can be stored easily.
• If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring a container to store them safely.
• Leave all valuables at home, including credit cards and large sums of money.

What to Expect

• When you arrive in the Highland Endoscopy Center, check-in at the reception desk. A nurse will verify your personal information and provide you with all necessary information about your procedure.
• You may be asked to wait in the waiting area until it is time for your procedure to begin. We will make every attempt to keep you informed regarding your procedure time, but sometimes delays are unavoidable. It is a good idea to bring a magazine or book to read.
• When it is time for your procedure, a nurse will call you into the preparation area to get you ready and answer any questions you have. You will be asked to change into a patient gown. Blood work may be done, depending on your procedure. A nurse will be with you throughout the procedure.
• Visitors can wait in the waiting area while you have your procedure.

After Your Procedure Is Completed

• You will be transferred to the recovery area, and your visitors will be welcome to join you. Recovery time depends on the type of procedure you had.
• Before you are discharged, you will be given written instructions to take home with you.
• With your permission, we may follow up with a phone call in the days following your procedure to see if you have any remaining questions or concerns.