mybonsecours
frequently asked questions
how do you disinfect the endoscopes?
how long does an endoscopic procedure take?
is the procedure painful?
why can't I drive myself home after my endoscopic appointment?
when can I eat after my procedure?
how do you disinfect the edoscopes?
Our endoscopes undergo a thorough cleaning and disinfection process in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions for reprocessing and standards recommended by the following professional organizations:
- SGNA: The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc.
- ASGE: The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
- CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- FDA: The Food and Drug Administration
- APIC: Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc.
how long does an endoscopic procedure take?
If you are scheduled for an "endoscopic procedure," plan to be in our center for about two to two and one half hours. Procedures such as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) or colonoscopy require sedation to make you comfortable. Even though the test itself takes about 30 minutes, you will need extra time for registration, nursing admission, the procedure itself, and post-procedure recovery. Currently, our patients' average stay is about two hours.
is the procedure painful?
No. With the modern anesthetic sedatives, your examination should be comfortable. You may be unaware of the actual procedure itself. Many patients sleep through the entire procedure.
why can’t I drive myself home after my endoscopic appointment?
Endoscopic examinations such as colonoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) require sedation. The sedation is to promote patient comfort. However, it may make you groggy and slow reflexes for several hours. This is why you cannot operate a motor vehicle or perform activities that require quick reflexes until the following morning. It is necessary for you to come with a friend or family member who can safely drive you home after your test is over.
when can I eat after my procedure?
The nurse will offer you something to drink as soon as you wake up in the recovery. Unless your doctor says otherwise, you can resume your normal diet after you go home. Start slow at first and use some common sense.
when can I return to work after my procedure?
Most patients are able to return to work the following morning.
when do I get the results of my procedure?
The results of your endoscopic procedure are immediate. Your doctor will discuss the results and follow up with you and your family or friend after you are awake. You will also receive written post procedure instructions. You will have an opportunity to ask questions, but your memory may be impaired by the sedation.
