Which instructions should be given to a patient in preparation for a barium enema?
A) Instruct the patient to follow a clear liquid diet beginning the morning before the procedure
B) Tell the patient the procedure will last 4 hours
C) Tell the patient to take one tablet of contrast medium every 5 minutes the night before, until six tablets are taken
D) Tell the patient he may have a glass of milk the morning of the examination
E) Tell the patient it is not necessary to take laxatives or electrolyte solutions for this test

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A clear liquid diet the day before the procedure is standard to ensure the colon is clean for the barium enema. This allows for clearer images during the examination. Choices B, C, D, and E are incorrect as they provide inaccurate information regarding the duration of the procedure, the method of contrast administration, dietary restrictions, and preparation requirements.

Which Instructions Should Be Given to a Patient in Preparation