Preoperative fasting guidelines and their importance for children's health

ABSTRACT

Children, similar to adults, are required to fast before general anesthesia in order to reduce the volume and acidity of stomach contents. It is thought that NPO regulations reduce the risk of regurgitation and aspiration of gastric contents during surgery. Recent developments have encouraged a shift from the standard 'nil by mouth from midnight' fasting policy to more relaxed regimens. Preoperative NPO status for each patient must be regulated according to his/her age and timing of the surgery, the night before the operation [2 hours for clear fluids and 4-6 hours for solid foods and milk before the surgery, considering his/her age]