A bronchoscopy test is where a viewing scope is placed inside your mouth. Your doctor is able to look inside your lungs through the scope. You will receive a medication to reduce any discomfort. This test is done in a special area of the hospital called endoscopy.
What Happens Before the Test?
Your doctor will explain the test to you, and ask you to sign a consent form. It is signed only if you understand and agree to the test. Your doctor will explain the risks to you.
Eating or drinking is not allowed for six hours before the time of the test. You may receive medication before you leave the unit. This will help you relax. The medication will also help to fry up some of he secretions in your mouth and lungs. Your nurse will give you a hospital gown to wear. If you wear glasses or dentures you will remove them before leaving your room. A porter will take you to the endoscopy area on a stretcher.
How is it Done?
When you arrive at the endoscopy area you will remain on the stretcher. Your doctor will spray a medication in your throat that produces a numb feeling. This prevents gagging while the viewing scope is being inserted. Your doctor may also give you an intravenous injection to help you relax.
Your doctor inserts the scope through your mouth and into your lungs. You can breathe with the scope in place. Your doctor then looks at your lungs through the scope. Specimens are taken and sent to the laboratory for testing. After the test your doctor removes the scope. The test usually takes 30 minutes.
After the Test
You will return to your room on a stretcher. Nurses will check your blood pressure and pulse until you are fully awake.
You may eat and drink once you are able to swallow normally. This usually takes three to four hours.
You may have a soar throat and dry cough after the test. Also, you may see blood in your sputum. This is normal and will go away in a few days. Your nurse may collect a sputum specimen and send it to the laboratory for testing.
Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)
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