The abbreviation NPO is used to indicate what instruction?

The abbreviation NPO stands for "nothing by mouth." It is a medical instruction that signifies that a patient should not consume any food or drink for a specified period of time. This guideline is crucial in various medical contexts, particularly before surgeries or certain medical procedures, to reduce the risk of aspiration and other complications. When a patient is NPO, it allows healthcare providers to ensure that the digestive system is empty, which is necessary for safe anesthesia and interventions.

While the other options refer to various medical instructions, they do not accurately capture the specific meaning of NPO. Understanding the importance of this instruction is essential for safe medication administration and patient care.