Instructions for capsule endoscopy (PillCam) for patients of TidalHealth Gastroenterology in Seaford
These instructions are for patients scheduled with a capsule endoscopy (PillCam) at TidalHealth Nanticoke, 801 Middleford Road, Seaford, DE. The day of your procedure, you must arrive at TidalHealth Nanticoke at 6:30 am to swallow the PillCam by 7 am.
One week before your procedure
Discontinue all iron supplements, including any multi-vitamin you may be taking. Tylenol only can be used for headaches or pain.
The day before your procedure
You may only have clear liquids.
Beverages
- Water
- Coffee or tea (no milk or non-dairy creamers)
- Fruit juice (no pulp)
- Kool-Aid
- Sports drinks
- Sodas
Clear broth
- Chicken
- Beef
- Vegetable
Desserts
- Jell-O (no fruit or toppings)
- Popsicles (no sherbets, fruit bars or fudge popsicles)
- Hard candy
The day of your procedure
- Do not apply lotion or cream to your abdominal area
- Do not take any medication before you arrive at the hospital
- Do not eat or drink for the first 2 hours after swallowing the PillCam
- Wear two-piece loose-fitting clothing
2 hours after swallowing the PillCam
- You may only have clear liquids
- You can take your morning medications
4 hours after swallowing the PillCam
- Have a light lunch (nothing red in color)
8 hours after swallowing the PillCam
- Return to the hospital
- You may resume your normal diet
You CANNOT have any MRI's for 2 weeks following this procedure.
If you have any questions or need to cancel your procedure: call our office at 302-297-2506.
If you experience any abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting after swallowing the PillCam: call our office at 302-297-2506 or call the Day Surgery unit at TidalHealth Nanticoke at 302-629-6611, ext. 3824.