NPO is a medical abbreviation derived from the Latin phrase “nil per os,” which means “nothing by mouth.” It is used to indicate that a person should not eat or drink anything for a certain period.
NPO Medical Abbreviation
NPO is mostly used in medical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Here are some examples of how it appears in spoken and written communication:
In Medical Instructions
Doctors and nurses use NPOs to give instructions about food and drink restrictions.
For Example:
- “The patient is NPO after midnight for surgery tomorrow.”
- “Please remind Mr. Smith that he is NPO until his procedure.”
In Medical Charts and Notes
Healthcare professionals often write NPO in patient records or hospital charts to inform staff about food restrictions.
Example in written form:
- Patient: John Doe
- Diagnosis: Requires endoscopy
- Instructions: NPO from 10:00 PM
Other Medical Abbreviations
Common Phrases Related to NPO
Here are a few similar phrases often used in medical English:
- “Fasting” – Another way to say not eating or drinking for a period.
- Example: “The doctor asked me to fast for 8 hours before my test.”
- “On a clear liquid diet” – Allowed to drink water, tea, or juice but not eat solid food.
- Example: “She is not completely NPO, but she’s on a clear liquid diet.”
- “Restricted diet” – A diet with specific limitations, such as avoiding certain foods.
- Example: “After surgery, the patient will have a restricted diet for a few days.”
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is intended to help learners understand common medical abbreviations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any medical concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional.