Question

The nurse teaches a client scheduled for a colonoscopy. Which instruction should be included as part of the preparation for the procedure?

a) Consume at least 3 quarts of water 30 minutes before the test.
b) Do not void for at least 30 minutes before the test. c) Follow the dietary and fluid restrictions and bowel preparation procedures. d) Spray or gargle with a local anesthetic.

Answer 1

The correct preparation for a colonoscopy includes following dietary and fluid restrictions and bowel preparation procedures, not consuming large amounts of water immediately prior or avoiding urination.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct instruction for a client preparing for a colonoscopy is c) Follow the dietary and fluid restrictions and bowel preparation procedures. Prior to a colonoscopy, it is important for the bowel to be cleared to allow clear visibility and reduce the risk of complications during the procedure. This preparation usually includes following a special diet that is low in fiber for several days before the examination, drinking large amounts of a liquid laxative solution the night before the procedure, or both.

Additionally, the patient may need to fast for about 12 hours before the test. Consuming a large quantity of water right before the procedure or avoiding urination is not standard advice. Local anesthetics are not typically part of the bowel preparation process and are used for different types of examinations and interventions.