Pediatric Fasting Times Before Surgical and Radiologic Procedures: Benchmarking Institutional Practices Against National Standards

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

1-1-2014

Journal

Journal of Pediatric Nursing

Volume

29

Issue

3

DOI

10.1016/j.pedn.2013.11.011

Keywords

Compliance with ASA preoperative fasting guidelines; Fasting before sedated radiological procedures; Pediatric fasting time orders; Pediatric preoperative fasting

Abstract

Prolonged preoperative fasting can be associated with adverse outcomes, particularly in children. Our aims were to assess the time pediatric patients fasted prior to surgical or radiologic procedures and evaluate whether fasting (NPO) orders complied with national guidelines. We measured NPO start time, time of last intake, and time test or surgery was scheduled, took place, or was cancelled in 219 pediatric patients. Findings demonstrate that pediatric patients experienced prolonged fasting before procedures and that the majority of NPO orders were non-compliant with national guidelines. We have developed strategies to reduce fasting times and ensure compliance with recommended national fasting standards. © 2014 Elsevier Inc.

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS