Which of the following is NOT an expected finding after colonoscopy?

• A. Cramping
• B. Gas
• C. Watery stools
• D. Severe bleeding requiring surgery

Answer: (D)

After a colonoscopy, mild cramping and gas are common because air is insufflated to expand the colon for better visualization, and this gas typically passes and the cramping resolves as the air dissipates. Watery stools can occur as a result of the bowel prep and residual laxatives used to clear the bowel before the procedure, so some temporary loose stools after the exam can be expected. In contrast, severe bleeding that requires surgery is not an expected finding after a routine colonoscopy. While minor bleeding can occur if a biopsy is taken or polyps are removed, significant bleeding requiring surgical intervention would be an alarming complication and not a normal post-procedure finding.