The colon forms part of the large bowel or intestine and stores stool before it is excreted from the body. Food nutrients and water are absorbed back into the bloodstream, concentrating the waste products in the colon. The tissues lining the colon can undergo changes in several disease processes, including polyp growths, tumors and diverticulitis. Surgery in this area requires preoperative preparation to empty and cleanse the colon.
Step 1
Read all the instructions provided by your doctor several days before your colon procedure. Your doctor may prescribe a bowl prep kit such as HalfLytely, which includes an oral prep solution and cleansing medication called Dulcolax or Bisacodyl.
Step 2
Purchase any prescribed bowel preparation cleansers and medications and the recommended foods, so that all needed items are available during your colon cleanse prior to surgery. Go over the instructions on how to prepare and take the solutions and what else the preparation requires.
Step 3
Take any prescribed antibiotics. Two different antibiotics are usually prescribed before a colon cleanse to reduce the risk of infections, notes the Austin Surgeons website. Take both antibiotics together at 1, 5 and 9 p.m. the day before the surgery.
Step 4
Eat and drink only a clear-liquid diet for 24 hours before the surgery. Recommended clear foods include water, carbonated beverages, black coffee, tea, plain gelatin, clear broth, fruit juices and popsicles. Do not eat or drink dairy products of any kind.
Step 5
Prepare the bowl prep kit the day before the procedure or as recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions carefully. Take the Dulcolax laxative tablets at 1:30 p.m. and begin drinking the Halflyte solution at 3 p.m., completing the dose before midnight.
Step 6
Stop eating and drinking anything at midnight if your colon procedure is in the morning. Stop eating eight to 10 hours before the procedure if you are scheduled in the afternoon or evening.
Tips and Warnings
- Ensure that you understand the instructions before beginning. It is best to speak to the prescribing doctor about the medication and bowel prep solution. Remain close to a restroom, preferably at home while undergoing the colon prep. Wash the anal area with warm water, wiping gently to avoid irritation after each bowel movement.
- The laxative medication and bowel prep solution will cause excess or loose bowel movements as the colon is cleansed. Do not take higher doses of the prescribed medication and cleanser or use additional bowel cleansing systems or enemas. Drink plenty of water and clear fluids to avoid dehydration.
Things You'll Need
- Bowel prep solution
- Prescribed medications
- Clear liquid diet
- Antibiotics
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