What should you do when a resident is NPO for a procedure?

What should you do when a resident is NPO for a procedure?

• A. Do not offer food or drink and follow instructions; document any exceptions only as guided by nurse.
• B. Offer water.
• C. Snack occasionally.
• D. Document nothing.

Answer: (A)

When a resident is NPO, the priority is safety during procedures requiring anesthesia or sedation, so nothing by mouth should be given until the orders change. The CNA should not offer food or drink and must follow the nurse’s instructions, documenting any exceptions exactly as guided. This protects against the risk of aspiration during the procedure. Giving water or snacks would violate the NPO status, and merely noting nothing is not sufficient—you must document any deviations or communications with the nurse to ensure the team can adjust plans appropriately.

When a resident is NPO, the priority is safety during procedures requiring anesthesia or sedation, so nothing by mouth should be given until the orders change. The CNA should not offer food or drink and must follow the nurse’s instructions, documenting any exceptions exactly as guided. This protects against the risk of aspiration during the procedure. Giving water or snacks would violate the NPO status, and merely noting nothing is not sufficient—you must document any deviations or communications with the nurse to ensure the team can adjust plans appropriately.