# A nurse teaches a client about polyethylene glycol (PEG-electrolyte) preparation for colonoscopy the next morning. Which statement indicates effective teaching?

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> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=391813&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Medical Emergencies  
> category: PA

## Question

A nurse teaches a client about polyethylene glycol (PEG-electrolyte) preparation for colonoscopy the next morning. Which statement indicates effective teaching?

## Option

1. I should keep the solution at room temperature because cold temperature reduces its laxative effect and could cause cramping and slow bowel movements.
2. I plan to drink the entire solution as fast as I can, within 30 minutes, so the prep works quickly and I can sleep through the night and avoid multiple bathroom trips.
3. I will mix the preparation with red fruit juice to make it palatable, because I've been told that any clear liquid without pulp is fine for the colonoscopy prep.
4. Drink the solution in 240 mL portions every 10-15 minutes as a split dose (half the evening before, half 4-6 hours before procedure); expect frequent watery stools **✔ Correct answer**

**Correct answer: 4**

## Explanation

Correct (2): PEG-electrolyte solution is best taken as a split dose (half evening before, half 4-6 hours before scope) in 240 mL aliquots every 10-15 min. Outcomes superior to single dose. Refrigeration is OK to improve palatability (but no red/purple dye that mimics blood on scope). (1) Causes nausea/aspiration. (3) Refrigeration helps. (4) Red dye obscures findings.

## In-depth explanation

Memory Tip PEG colonoscopy prep = "Split dose, Cold OK, NO Red." Stop solids and start clear liquid diet day before; clear stool target.

## Clinical scenario

Scenario 52-year-old male preparing for screening colonoscopy AM; prescribed PEG 4 L split-dose. Outpatient teaching.

## Key concepts

- **Polyethylene glycol (PEG) prep** — Osmotic colonoscopy preparation; split-dose protocol preferred.
- **Split-dose protocol** — Half PEG evening before + half 4-6 hours before procedure; improves visualization.
- **Bowel prep clarity** — Goal: yellow/clear effluent; red/purple liquids excluded.

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