Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if I am not feeling well?
If you are not feeling well, please contact your physician immediately. If you have any signs of a chest/ head cold or flu like symptoms PLEASE call the office and reschedule your appointment for when you are well. If you arrive ill your procedure will be cancelled in the interest of patient safety.
What if I cannot make my appointment?
Please notify your physician’s office during normal business hours if you cannot make your scheduled appointment. Early notification can help us better accommodate you and other patients. In the event that you have to cancel your appointment at the last minute, please call the Endoscopy Center at 415-464-0606 and leave a message.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable loose fitting clothing. A short sleeve t-shirt is advised as you can keep this on under the patient gown. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring socks with you to wear to help keep your feet covered and warm. Leave all jewelry at home, including body-piercing jewelry. If you are unable to do this, please make the staff aware of this.
Why must I refrain from drinking prior to my procedure?
You MUST refrain from any fluid intake for 3 hours prior to your arrival in order to prevent the risks of aspirating gastric contents during your exam. This complication is very serious and you need to strictly abide by your Physicians recommendations. Our pre-procedural fasting recommendations are based off current safety standards. At this time, there is no evidence that fasting for a longer period of time will improve safety.
Should I take my usual daily medication?
Your physician will inform you if any of your medications should be stopped prior to your procedure. Please call your physician with any questions you may have regarding your medications.
Patients prescribed rescue inhalers must bring them to the Center on the day of the procedure.
May I continue my herbal medications?
Many herbal remedies interfere with anesthetic agents and can be harmful during or after the procedure. It is important to make your provider aware of the supplements you take and have a plan for how you will continue them around your procedure time. Detailed information regarding these contraindications, can be found here: Herbal Products and Your Anesthesia
Who may accompany me?
You are welcome to bring one responsible adult with you to the Center. Upon admission, you can designate this person to receive and/or witness your discharge instructions and findings. We cannot discharge you to a minor’s care, please refrain from bringing children into the Center.
Will I receive sedation before going into the procedure room?
We will individualize each patient’s care. Typically we do not provide sedation prior to transfer to the procedure room.
Will I be contacted before my procedure?
Yes. We call each patient before the procedure date to confirm the appointment time and hopefully answer any of your questions and review your health history information.
Should I bathe and wash my hair before leaving home?
Yes. You can comfortably take a shower, bathe, brush your teeth, etc. We recommend you refrain from applying body lotions to the chest area as this may hinder our ability to apply the cardiac monitors.
What should I do if I started my menstrual cycle?
This will not affect your procedure. You can use whatever menstrual product you prefer.
What should I do if I believe that I am pregnant?
It is very important for us to be aware of this possibility. If there is any doubt please contact your Physician immediately.
May I drive home?
Any patient receiving sedation cannot drive until the next day. A patient receiving sedation for a procedure needs a ride home. All patients are required to have a ride home and will be received by a responsible adult when they arrive home. Patients will not be allowed to drive, after sedation. Please make the appropriate arrangements.
What if I have special needs?
We will make every effort to accommodate any special need you may have. We strongly encourage you to call the Center in advance so that we can properly prepare to make you comfortable.
Should I bring my special needs equipment?
Yes. Please bring any walkers, post-op crutches, hearing aids, etc.
What must I bring on the day of the procedure?
Bring photo ID, Insurance cards, a pair of socks, short sleeve t-shirt, wear loose comfortable clothing and leave all other valuables at home. Also bring your rides name and phone number.
How do I get a copy of my records?
Please complete the request for Medical Records Release Form and follow the directions at the bottom of the page to send it to us.