Bowel Preparation

Fasting guidelines is applicable to all client requiring anesthesia for all surgical and non-surgical procedures like endoscopic (gastroscopy and colonoscopy) and radiologic studies.1. Check patients file and the procedure to be done. Ensure doctors order.2. Check patient identity using the ID band or letting the patient state his or her name.3. Explain the purpose of fasting or any mechanical bowel preparation to be done. 4. Fasting before the procedure: ELECTIVE Surgeriesa. GENERAL ANESTHESIA: Clear Fluid Minimum fast for clear fluids (water, diluting juice, tea and black coffee. Note the milk is not included) should be 2 hours prior to surgery. Non clear fluids (pulp containing juice) should be avoided 6 hours prior to surgery. Breast feeding infant should be fed 4 hours prior to surgerySolid Food Solid and milk containing foods should be avoided 6 hours prior to surgery Patients should eat normally on the day before surgery and avoid large or fatty meals. Fat and dietary fiber tends to remain in the stomach for longer than other foods. Patients for a morning list should eat nothing for six hours before surgery. Realistically, most patients will not usually eat after midnight and this is a convenient cut-off point. Children often do not eat after 6pm and a light snack at bedtime should be advised. Patients for an afternoon list should have a light breakfast at least 6 hours prior to the start of the list. Patients with diabetes mellitus should observe usual dietary guidelines prior to fasting.Notes: Pre-medications can be given 2 hours prior to surgery with minimal water (