[Preoperative fasting in children-Experiences with implementing a liberal fasting policy]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Anesthesiology
• Perioperative Medicine
• Clinical Practice Improvement

Context:

• Traditional "6-4-2" fasting rules for pediatric surgery often lead to prolonged fasting.
• This can cause adverse events like discomfort and hypoglycemia.
• A liberal "6-4-0" policy allows clear fluids until the operating room.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and durability of a liberal fasting policy in a university hospital.
• To assess the impact on patient/parent satisfaction and perioperative outcomes.
• To analyze fasting times, agitation, hypotension, and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).

Summary:

• A retrospective study compared outcomes before and after implementing a liberal fasting policy.
• Clear fluid fasting times were significantly reduced (6.1h to 4.5h).
• Patient/parent satisfaction improved, and preoperative agitation decreased.

Impact:

• Liberal fasting policies can improve pediatric surgical patient experience.
• Sustained success requires ongoing staff education and reminders.
• This approach benefits children, especially those with later surgery schedules.