An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (EGD) is a common medical procedure used to examine the lining of the upper digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine. A flexible tube with a camera is passed through the mouth to visualize the area and look for issues like inflammation or ulcers. Since the procedure often involves sedation, patient safety protocols require continuous monitoring. These protocols dictate specific instructions regarding clothing and accessories, including whether a patient may wear a bra.
Why Clothing and Bras Are a Concern During Endoscopy
The necessity of removing clothing, including a bra, during an endoscopy stems from the need to attach medical monitoring devices directly to the patient’s skin. Medical staff must continuously monitor various physiological signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and blood oxygen saturation via a pulse oximeter.
To track the heart’s electrical activity, electrocardiogram (ECG) leads must be placed on the chest. These adhesive electrodes are positioned in specific locations on the torso, often near where a bra sits, to capture an accurate heart rhythm reading. Clothing, including a bra, can obstruct the proper placement of these electrodes or interfere with the signal.
Patients are universally asked to remove personal clothing from the waist up and change into a loose-fitting hospital gown. This gown is easily accessible, allowing staff to quickly respond in an emergency. Changing into the gown simplifies the process and ensures uninterrupted access to the patient’s chest and arms for monitoring equipment and intravenous line access.
The Specific Issue of Metal Underwire
Beyond the practical barrier of monitoring access, the material composition of a bra, particularly metal underwire, presents a technical concern. Traditional bras often contain metal underwires, hooks, and adjusters that can interfere with the electronic signals of monitoring equipment. Metal can potentially distort ECG electrode readings, making it harder for the medical team to accurately track the patient’s heart rhythm.
The potential for signal distortion is a risk medical facilities prefer to eliminate, even though some studies suggest metal underwire does not significantly alter core ECG parameters. This interference could manifest as noise on the tracing, potentially masking a subtle change in heart activity. Metal objects are routinely removed before many medical procedures due to protocols surrounding emergency interventions.
The presence of metal can pose a risk if emergency imaging, such as fluoroscopy or X-ray, is suddenly required. Removing all metal from the upper body is a standard safety precaution to maintain the clarity of electronic monitoring and ensure the most straightforward environment for the clinical team.
Preparation Day Clothing Recommendations
Patients can simplify their preparation by choosing comfortable, practical clothing on the day of their endoscopy. Helpful garments are loose-fitting items that are easily removed and put back on, such as sweatpants, soft-fabric trousers, or a button-down top. Wearing minimal, easy-to-manage clothing helps the patient transition quickly into the provided hospital gown.
Most facilities require the removal of underwire bras, but some may permit a soft, non-underwire sports bra or cotton camisole if it does not interfere with ECG lead placement. It is best to check with the facility beforehand and be prepared to remove it completely. Leaving all jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and watches, at home is also recommended to prevent loss and eliminate potential metal interference.