Dumb Question

I will have been on clear liquids / nothing by mouth for about 44 hours when I go into surgery - how do I know everything is out of my small intestines so there is no stool when they cut the bowel.  I am tempted to take a bowel prep just to make myself feel better - but also don't want to dehydrate myself going into surgery.  Thoughts?

Parl Nicollet had me take magnesium citrate (it's been so long, I think that's what it's called) the night before surgery.  I had to get it from the pharmacy.  Around these parts it was affectionately known as the "ass reamer."  Check with your clinic. Take care and good luck. J

I am just being dumb.  I am a nurse, I know the answer - should be out within 8 hours of eating, I'm just trying to lessen the chnce of contaminants into my abdomen.  And I know some programs require a bowel prep - mine does not.  Still tempted....  if it wasn't so late and I would be up pooping all night I might have.  But 44 hours and everything should be far out....  TMI I know!

It sounds like a case of nerves to me...I had them.  The day of my surgery, I'm laying in the bed, shaking so hard my teeth were chattering and my legs were moving.  I was worried about the bowel prep, but my doc had me use the magnesium citrate 2 days prior to the surgery and then LD until surgery.  All went well. Keep us informed on how you do and feel.  We'll be there for you. Take care and good luck tomorrow!  Now try to get some rest. Debi

If your surgeon doesn't tell you to do anything special, then don't!  If it really bugs you, then call them and ask!  And there is no dumb question!