Is the Virtual Colonoscopy a Replacement for Optical Colonoscopy?

OBJECTIVE: To examine the viability of colon cancer screening with computed tomography colonography, also known as virtual colonoscopy.

DATA SOURCES: Clinical guidelines, published medical research.

CONCLUSION: Virtual colonoscopy, under the right circumstances, is an accurate viable screening tool for patients who may not otherwise desire to or are not able to participate in traditional colonoscopy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses should be aware that routine colon cancer screening is recommended starting at age 50. In addition to the traditional colonoscopy, there are other options if a patient is unwilling or unable to undergo optical colon screening. Nurses should discuss the positive and negative aspects of different types of colon screening and teach proper bowel preparation for colon screening.