QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
The patient followed fasting rules correctly (no solid food for at least 6 hours before the operation, clear fluids up to 2 hours before the operation) and therefore there is no reason to delay the operation.
10035833
b
Delay the operation until 6:00 PM
QuestionChoice
Fasting rules outline that a patient should not eat for at least 6 hours before the operation but can have clear fluids (water, black tea/coffee) up to 2 hours before the operation. As the patient had clear fluids 5 hours before the operation, she is completely safe to proceed.
10035832
a
Continue with the operation as planned
QuestionChoice
This would be incorrect as solid food should be consumed at the latest 6 hours before the operation.
10035836
e
Encourage the patient to keep eating and drinking up until 10:00 AM
QuestionChoice
The patient followed fasting rules correctly (no solid food for at least 6 hours before the operation, clear fluids up to 2 hours before the operation) and therefore there is no reason to delay the operation.
10035834
c
Delay the operation until the following morning
QuestionChoice
This would be incorrect as clear fluids can be consumed up until 2 hours before the operation, this would only allow 1.5 hours after consumption of clear fluids.
10035835
d
Bring the operation forward to 8:30 AM
Concept
Chapter
2693
6154
Pre-operative fasting
Topic
177
Anaesthetics and Intensive Care Medicine
19570
Patients can consume clear fluids, such as black coffee, up to two hours before elective surgery without increasing aspiration risk.
A 57-year-old female is scheduled for an elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy at 12:00 PM. She attends her pre-operative assessment at 8:00 AM, at which she reveals she drank black coffee at 7:00 AM the same morning. She apologises and states she was aware she needed to remain 'nil by mouth' and is now concerned that the operation will need to be cancelled.

What is the most appropriate course of action to take?
a