Final answer:
After an upper gastrointestinal series with barium contrast, the patient should drink plenty of water and eat a high-fiber diet to aid in flushing out the barium.
Step-by-step explanation:
After undergoing an upper gastrointestinal series with barium contrast, it is essential that a patient receives clear discharge instructions to ensure proper recovery and a return to normal gastrointestinal functioning. One key piece of advice for the patient is to drink plenty of water following the procedure. This helps to flush the barium contrast out of the system. Additionally, the patient should be advised to return to a balanced diet that is high in fiber to promote regular bowel movements and aid in the elimination of barium.
Due to its constipating effects, a high-fiber diet can help counteract any potential issues caused by the barium contrast. It is important for the patient to look out for and report any changes in bowel movements, especially if they notice any constipation or unusual stool color as the barium passes through the system.