NPO Guidelines
NPO comes from the Latin term, "nothing by mouth." Many exams and procedures require fasting from food and/or liquids (including water). Check the fasting times required for your child's age group from the table below.
Examples of clear liquids include water, clear fruit juice without pulp (please, no orange juice), carbonated beverages, clear tea and black coffee. Please do not give your child more than eight ounces of any liquid four to six hours before the time of the scheduled procedure. Unless instructed otherwise, patients should take all routine medications with sips of water.
If you have any questions regarding NPO requirements, please contact your child's physician or exam scheduler.
| 0-6 months Solids/non-clear liquids Clear liquids Breast milk Formula |
NPO 6 hours 2 hours 4 hours 6 hours |
| 6-36 months Solids/non-clear liquids Clear liquids Breast milk Formula |
NPO 6 hours 3 hours 6 hours 6 hours |
| Older than 36 months Solids/non-clear liquids Clear liquids Breast milk Formula |
NPO 8 hours 4 hours N/A N/A |
