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The client will be asked to change into a gown and assume a side-lying position on the exam table, usually with the knees to the chest. The HCP will insert a sigmoidoscope into the rectum. The average length of the procedure is 15 minutes. tap water enema or Fleet's is given until returns are clear the morning of the procedure. The procedure is done to screen for colon cancer or explore possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea, and other intestinal problems. The air expands the colon, which provides a better view of the colon lining. When the scope is moved or air is introduced, the client may feel abdominal cramping or the urge to move the bowels.

a) Colonoscopy
b) Sigmoidoscopy
c) Upper endoscopy
d) Barium enema

User Jack Nock
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Final answer:

A sigmoidoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the rectum and lower third of the colon for screening of colon cancer and investigation of gastrointestinal symptoms. It is less invasive than a colonoscopy and typically takes about 15 minutes to perform.

Step-by-step explanation:

The procedure being described in which a client is asked to change into a gown, assume a side-lying position, and have a sigmoidoscope inserted into the rectum is known as a sigmoidoscopy. This medical procedure is commonly performed to screen for colon cancer or to investigate symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea, or other intestinal issues. It allows health care providers to inspect the rectum and lower third of the colon using a small camera, which makes sigmoidoscopy a valuable tool for detecting conditions in these areas, although it does not examine the entire colon like a colonoscopy does.

A sigmoidoscopy is typically quicker than a colonoscopy, averaging around 15 minutes, and may require preparation such as a tap water enema or Fleet's enema to clear the bowels beforehand. During the procedure, air may be introduced to expand the colon and improve visibility, which can cause abdominal cramping or an urge to defecate. While not as comprehensive as a colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy is a useful screening and diagnostic tool for colorectal cancer and other lower intestinal conditions.

User Stan Sokolov
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