American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

Which term indicates that a patient has had nothing to eat?

1. Postprandial

2. Fasting

3. NPO

4. Preprandial

The correct answer is: Postprandial

The correct term that indicates a patient has had nothing to eat is "NPO," which stands for "nil per os," a Latin phrase meaning "nothing by mouth." This designation is typically used in medical contexts to instruct patients not to consume anything, including food and drink, for a specified period, often prior to a surgical procedure or certain medical tests. "Fasting" is often used interchangeably with "NPO," as it refers to a period without food consumption, but fasting can sometimes allow for clear liquids or specific guidelines depending on the context. "Postprandial" refers to the period after eating, typically used in medical testing contexts to describe the time following a meal. "Preprandial" refers to the period before eating. Therefore, in this setting, "NPO" is the most precise term that indicates the patient has had nothing to eat.