Nil per os
Nil per os (NPO or npo) is a medical instruction meaning to withhold oral food and fluid intake. It is a Latin phrase that translates to "nothing by mouth".
Pronunciation
In English, Nil per os is pronounced as /nil pɛr ˈoʊs/.
Etymology
The term "Nil per os" originates from Latin, where "nil" means "nothing", "per" means "through" or "by", and "os" means "mouth".
Usage
In medical practice, the instruction of Nil per os is often used before certain medical procedures or surgeries where general anesthesia is used, to prevent aspiration of gastric contents. It may also be used in cases where the patient has difficulty swallowing or has an obstruction in the digestive tract.
Related Terms
- Aspiration: The inhalation of either food or fluid into the lungs, which can be prevented by Nil per os.
- General Anesthesia: A medically induced coma with loss of protective reflexes, before which Nil per os is often required.
- Dysphagia: Difficulty in swallowing, in which case Nil per os may be instructed.
- Gastrointestinal Obstruction: A blockage that prevents food or fluid from passing through the digestive tract, which may necessitate Nil per os.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nil per os
- Wikipedia's article - Nil per os
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