1. Health

Preparing for a Colonoscopy

By , About.com Guide

Updated August 21, 2012

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Schedule the Appointment
Preparing for a Colonoscopy

Make sure you have a responsible adult available to drive you home.

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You may not be able to return to work on the day following the procedure, so choose a time and date that works with your schedule. If you work Monday through Friday, try to schedule a Friday appointment so you can rest over the weekend. Make sure to check with your employer before taking time off. Although chances are there's no extreme rush to get the test completed tomorrow, you don't want to postpone scheduling it. Some busy practices schedule appointments up to three months out.

Your medical team will provide conscious sedation – a light sedative – during your test. Legally, you are not allowed to sign documents or drive for 24 hours following the sedation. Make sure that you have a responsible adult available to drive you home on test day. The hospital staff will not release you to a minor or public transportation (cab or bus).

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