Which statement about fasting before elective general anaesthesia is consistent with current UK practice?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Clear fluids until 2 hours before, with solid food stopped 6 hours before
- Step 1: Prolonged fasting causes dehydration and distress without lowering aspiration risk. Step 2. Guidance is 6 hours for solids and 2 hours for clear fluids, with exceptions for those at special risk. Answer: Clear fluids until 2 hours before, with solid food stopped 6 hours before. Why not the others: Strict fasting from midnight is outdated. The shorter fasting times are unsafe. Stopping fluids before solids reverses the sensible order.
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