fasting guidelines

Question 1

What is the limited solid food fasting duration for adults prior to anaesthesia?

Answer 1

Up to 6 hours prior to anaesthesia

More time may be needed for fatty/fried foods.

Question 2

What is the maximum amount of clear fluids allowed before anaesthesia?

Answer 2

<400ml up to 2 hours prior

Clear fluids can be consumed up to 2 hours before anaesthesia.

Question 3

Should regular medications be taken before anaesthesia?

Answer 3

Yes, except anti-diabetic drugs

Anticoagulants should ideally be stopped if possible, except low dose aspirin which can be continued.

Question 4

What should be done with hypoglycaemics on the day of surgery?

Answer 4

Continue hypoglycaemics up until the morning of the surgery and stop them on the day

This is to avoid hypoglycaemia.

Question 5

What is the fasting guideline for infants under 6 months regarding formula?

Answer 5

Formula up to 4 hours before

Breast milk can be given up to 3 hours before.

Question 6

What is the fasting guideline for children over 6 months?

Answer 6

Breast milk/formula and limited solid food up to 6 hours before

Clear fluids <3ml/kg/h up to 1 hour before.

Question 7

What is the risk for patients with known/suspected delayed gastric emptying?

Answer 7

Increased risk of perioperative regurgitation or vomiting

Standard fasting guidelines may not apply, and discretion is needed.

Question 8

What is the fasting guideline for gastric tube feeding?

Answer 8

Tube feeds are considered to be fatty meals and are usually ceased 8 hours prior to surgery

This is to minimize complications during anaesthesia.

Question 9

What is the fasting guideline for pregnant patients?

Answer 9

Standard fasting guidelines unless actively in labour

This ensures the safety of both mother and child.

Question 10

What should be followed for obese patients regarding fasting?

Answer 10

Standard guidelines should be followed

This applies to all patients regardless of weight.