Why You Can’t Eat Before Surgery: NPO Explained

Why can’t you eat or drink before surgery? It’s one of the most common questions patients ask, and the answer is all about your safety. In this video, orthopedic hand surgeon Dr. Michael Shuler of Athens Orthopedic Clinic and nurse anesthetist Jennifer, CRNA, explain: ✔ What “NPO” means ✔ How anesthesia relaxes the body’s natural protection against aspiration ✔ Why our surgery center asks for nothing to eat or drink after midnight ✔ Which clear liquids are OK for taking your morning medicines ✔ Why surgery may be delayed or canceled if you’ve eaten ✔ Why chewing gum isn’t allowed either CHAPTERS 0:00 Why can’t you eat or drink before surgery? 0:28 What does NPO mean? 0:38 How aspiration happens (animation) 1:02 Why it matters 1:21 Always be honest with your team 1:39 The rule: nothing after midnight 2:08 Scheduled later in the day? 2:31 Clear liquids & morning medicines 3:06 Can surgery be canceled? 3:30 What about gum? 3:42 Key takeaways If you found this helpful, please subscribe for more patient education videos, and leave your questions in the comments. DISCLAIMER: This video is for general education only and is not medical advice. Fasting instructions vary by procedure, type of anesthesia, health conditions, and facility. Always follow the specific instructions from your surgeon and anesthesia team. #surgery #anesthesia #patienteducation