What does NPO mean?

NPO stands for "Nothing by Mouth," which is a medical instruction that indicates a patient should not take any food or drink orally. This term is often used in a hospital setting prior to surgeries or certain medical procedures where the risk of aspiration or complications from consuming food or liquids must be avoided. The NPO status helps ensure that the patient's stomach is empty, minimizing the risk of vomit during anesthesia or other interventions. Thus, understanding NPO is crucial for healthcare professionals in planning preoperative care and managing patient safety effectively.