Some degree of fasting is recommended to allow for gastric
emptying prior to surgery. This is intended to reduce aspiration of
regurgitated gastric contents, with subsequent aspiration pneumonitis.
NOTE: This assumes that the patient has normal gastric
emptying. If the patient has delayed gastric emptying then either a nasogastric
tube or prolonged NPO (nothing by mouth) may be required. In the event of
emergency surgery additional steps may be required to protect the airway.
|
Age of the Patient
|
Solids and Nonclear Liquids (Milk, etc.)
|
Clear Liquids
|
|
< 6 months of age
|
4 – 6 hours
|
2 hours
|
|
6 – 36 months
|
6 hours
|
2 – 3 hours
|
|
3 – 17 years
|
6 – 8 hours
|
2 – 3 hours
|
|
>= 18 years (adult)
|
6 – 8 hours (see
below)
|
2 – 3 hours
|
• Nonclear
liquids include milk and infant formula. The presence of high fat content may
delay gastric emptying.
Classically a patient was made NPO (?nil per orum) from
midnight. This is fine for early morning surgeries but can be burdensome if the
surgery is later in the day.
The times for solids are for light meals. A heavy meal may
require a longer fasting period depending on the type and quantity of food.