Preoperative NPO status requires nursing actions regarding fluid management and safety?

• A. Verify NPO status, hold oral intake, provide IV fluids as ordered, and implement aspiration precautions.
• B. Encourage oral fluids to stay hydrated.
• C. Hold IV fluids but allow oral intake.
• D. Resume solid foods immediately prior to procedure.

Answer: (A)

NPO status means nothing by mouth before anesthesia to keep the stomach empty and reduce the risk of aspiration if anesthesia depresses protective reflexes. Nursing actions should confirm the patient’s fasting status, withhold all oral intake until the anesthesia team says it’s safe to resume, and maintain hydration through IV fluids as ordered to prevent dehydration and reflex hypotension during the fasting period. Preparedness for airway safety is also key, so aspiration precautions—having suction available, ensuring the patient is in an appropriate position, and following institutional protocols—are part of the plan. Allowing fluids or solids would defeat the NPO goal and increase aspiration risk, and withholding IV fluids while allowing oral intake could lead to dehydration and hemodynamic instability.