Frequently Asked Questions
This issue is critical to us, and there are many safety steps built in for your protection. Waverley Endoscopy follows the guidelines from the Gastroenterological Nurses College of Australia (GENCA), and from AS/NZ 4187 Reprocessing of reusable medical devices in health service organisations. Scopes are cleaned in special sterilising units, which run automatically, and a printout certifying correct disinfection is done for every scope. This is able to be tracked. These units are regularly serviced and tested. The scopes are tested 3 monthly with Melbourne Pathology for infection, and have never shown a sign of bacteria. Viruses are also eradicated by these methods. All staff have accredited competency in endoscope cleaning and disinfection. If you have further questions, our staff would be happy to answer them.
It is VITAL that you fast for 6 hours prior to your scheduled procedure. This is to prevent choking on stomach contents while you are sedated. You should brush your teeth but spit out the mouth rinse. Fasting means NO WATER / FLUIDS and NO FOOD.
Blood pressure medications should be taken with a SMALL SIP of water (<20ml). Asthma medications should be taken as usual. Most other medications can be taken later. What about aspirin? Aspirin can usually be continued as usual. You do not need to take it on the morning of the procedure. If you do decide with your doctor to stop aspirin, you must not take aspirin for 7 days prior to the procedure.
These medications can be quite dangerous to stop, depending on why they were started. You must discuss this with your referring doctor. If it is safe to stop them, then they should be ceased for 10 days before your procedure. If you have your procedure while these drugs are still in your system, the risk of bleeding complications is much higher. IF there is doubt it is best that you see the endoscopist prior to the procedure for a formal appointment.
Warfarin can also be quite dangerous to stop, depending on why it was started. You must discuss this with your referring doctor. If it is safe to stop it, then you should MISS FOUR DAYS dosing before your procedure. IF there is doubt it is best that you see the Endoscopist prior to the procedure for a formal appointment.
If you are on any Diabetic medications you must contact Waverley Endoscopy for further instructions that may be required prior to your procedure.
All Financial details will be explained to you on making your booking and prior to your procedure. For further details see Financial Information
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