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PATIENT
INFORMATION FOR ADULT BARIUM ENEMA
A Barium Enema is
an x-ray examination of the large intestine, also known
as the colon. This includes the right or ascending colon, the transverse colon,
the left or descending colon and the rectum. The appendix and a portion of the small intestine may
also be included.
Patient Safety Tips Prior to a diagnostic exam in
Radiology
- If you
are pregnant or may be pregnant, please tell your doctor or technologist.
- Please
leave your valuables at home or in your room in the hospital.
- Please
let us now if you need interpreting services, this can be arranged for
you.
Preparation for the exam
- On the
day preceding the exam, do not eat any solid foods. You may have jello, strained
juices, and other liquids. You may drink as much as you like, but not any
milk products.
- At 12
noon of the day preceding the exam, take one bottle of Magnesium Citrate.
- In the
evening of the day preceding the exam, take 4 Dulcolax tablets with water.
- Please
arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled exam time.
During the exam
- The
technologist will verify your identification and exam requested.
- You
will have the opportunity to ask the technologists questions.
- There
will be an opportunity for you to talk with the radiologist about the plan
for the procedure and give your consent.
- The
duration of the exam will vary, but the average is about 30 minutes.
- The
technologist will position you on the exam table, and give you
instructions.
- The
technologist will insert a lubricated enema tip into your rectum. Liquid barium will flow into the
rectum. The radiologist will
ask you to turn from side to side.
- In
certain situations, the radiologist may introduce air along with the
barium solution.
- If you
feel uncomfortable, you should tell the technologist or radiologist.
After the exam
- You
may go to the toilet facilities to expel the barium. The barium will make
your stools white for a few days.
- If you
are going home, you may resume normal activities.
- Drink
plenty of fluids in the days following the exam.
- If you
experience constipation after the exam, tell your doctor.
If you have any questions, please call the scheduling
nurse at 415-353-4030.
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