Patient information
Practical information to help you prepare for your consultation or procedure. Your individual instructions may differ, so please follow the specific advice given by the practice.
Before your appointment
What to bring
- Identification and medical-aid details where applicable.
- Your referral letter, if you have one.
- A current list of medicines and doses.
- Relevant blood results, scans, endoscopy reports or previous medical records available to you.
- A list of questions or concerns you would like to discuss.
Medicines & medical conditions
Please tell the practice about medicines that affect bleeding or clotting, diabetes medicines, significant allergies, pregnancy or other important medical conditions.
Do not stop prescribed medication on your own. Medication changes should be discussed with the treating doctor or practice.
Preparing for endoscopy
Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy generally requires an empty stomach. The exact fasting instructions and any medication adjustments will be provided for your procedure.
Read about gastroscopy →Colonoscopy
A successful colonoscopy depends on good bowel preparation. You will receive specific instructions regarding diet and the prescribed bowel-cleansing preparation.
Read about colonoscopy →EUS & ERCP
Preparation depends on the planned procedure and whether sedation or anaesthesia is required. Follow the individual instructions supplied by the practice and hospital.
Read about EUS & ERCP →Manometry & capsule endoscopy
These investigations have their own preparation requirements. The practice will provide instructions appropriate to the test being performed.
Manometry → · Capsule endoscopy →Sedation and getting home safely
If your procedure involves sedation or anaesthesia, arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and follow the discharge instructions provided by the endoscopy unit. You should not plan to drive yourself after sedation.
The exact restrictions after your procedure depend on the medication and procedure performed; the clinical team will give you specific instructions on the day.
On the day
Please arrive at the time advised by the practice or hospital. Before a procedure, the clinical team will confirm your medical history, medications and allergies, discuss the planned investigation and obtain the appropriate consent.
Afterwards, findings and next steps will be discussed when appropriate. Biopsy or pathology results are not always immediately available and may require follow-up.
Urgent symptoms
This website and appointment form are not an emergency service. Significant gastrointestinal bleeding, severe or rapidly worsening abdominal symptoms, fainting, severe dehydration, confusion or another medical emergency requires urgent medical assessment.