Palatable Colonoscopy Prep

To make the preparation for colonoscopy more palatable, have patients use a combination of Gatorade and polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution instead of the traditional PEG electrolyte solution (PEG-ES). PEG solution has the same active ingredient as PEG-ES and is virtually tasteless. Instruct patients to add a 255-g bottle of PEG solution to 64 oz of Gatorade in any flavor that does not contain red or purple dye. Have the patients drink 8 oz of the mixture every 10 to 15 minutes, starting at 3 PM the day before their colonoscopy and continuing until all the solution has been consumed. Also on the day before the examination, have them take 2 bisacodyl tablets at noon and 2 more at 6 PM and advise them to consume only clear liquids.

—— Laura Balmer, RN, MS, ANP
   Gillett, Pa