What does the acronym NPO stand for in a medical context?

In a medical context, the acronym NPO stands for "Nothing Per Oral." This term is commonly used to indicate that a patient should not consume any food or liquid by mouth. This is typically necessary before certain medical procedures, surgeries, or tests to ensure that the stomach is empty, reducing the risk of complications such as aspiration during anesthesia or other interventions.

The concept of "Nothing Per Oral" is crucial in patient care, as it allows healthcare providers to prepare adequately for procedures while also safeguarding the patient's safety. By adhering to NPO instructions, a medical team can ensure clearer views during diagnostic imaging and minimize the risk of complications during surgery, such as vomiting.

Understanding the implications of NPO is vital for medical administrative assistants, as they often need to relay this information to patients and ensure adherence to pre-procedure instructions.