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Preoperative fasting time in children

S Adeel1, M Arain, M Healy

  • 1Department of Anaesthesia, Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin. drshahidadeel@hotmail.com

Irish Medical Journal
|June 26, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Most Irish anesthetists follow American Society of Anaesthesiologists guidelines for preoperative fasting in children. However, opinions differ on fasting durations for formula and breast milk, highlighting a need for clearer communication.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Pediatric Surgery

Background:

  • Preoperative fasting is crucial to prevent aspiration and manage dehydration.
  • The American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) provides guidelines for pediatric preoperative fasting.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess current adherence to ASA preoperative fasting guidelines by anesthesia registrars in Ireland.
  • To identify variations in fasting practices for pediatric elective surgery.

Main Methods:

  • A postal survey was conducted among specialist registrars in anesthesia in Ireland.
  • A questionnaire addressed fasting durations for clear fluids, solids, formula, and breast milk.
  • 60 out of 90 (67%) questionnaires were returned and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Most respondents adhere to ASA guidelines for clear fluids and solids.
  • Significant variation exists in the recommended fasting times for formula and breast milk.
  • Current practices show inconsistencies regarding specific aspects of pediatric preoperative fasting.

Conclusions:

  • Greater awareness and collaboration are needed among anesthesiologists, nurses, and surgeons.
  • Fasting instructions should be standardized to align with ASA guidelines.
  • Ensuring patient and parental understanding of fasting directives is essential.

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