Fill in the Blanks Fill in the Blanks: Nil By Mouth (NBM)Online version Introduction: “Nil by Mouth” (NBM) refers to a medical order where a patient is instructed not to consume anything by mouth. This can be due to various reasons, such as the need for surgery, gastrointestinal issues, or the risk of aspiration. It is critical that both healthcare professionals and patients understand the reasons and protocols around NBM orders to ensure patient safety. What is Nil by Mouth (NBM)? NBM is a medical instruction given to restrict a patient from ingesting food, fluids, or medications orally. Why is NBM Important? NBM orders are crucial to prevent complications like aspiration (where food or liquid enters the lungs), or to ensure that the gastrointestinal tract is not disturbed before a procedure. NBM is also important when preparing for certain diagnostic tests or surgeries that require an empty stomach. When is NBM used? - Pre-surgery: to reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia. - Gastrointestinal issues: conditions like bowel obstruction or certain surgeries. - Risk of aspiration: for patients with difficulty swallowing or those who are unconscious. Monitoring NBM patients: It’s important to monitor hydration and nutrition carefully. IV fluids and electrolytes are typically administered, and alternative routes for medication may be needed. by Alice Nguyen 1 tests routes oral circumstances intravenously protocols intake alternative adverse aspiration individual effects formulation interactions safety fluids surgical Nil by mouth is a medical instruction that prohibits of solids and . This directive is often implemented before procedures or certain medical to prevent complications such as . However , when considering medications , healthcare professionals must assess the patient's needs carefully . Some medications can be administered or through , ensuring that patients continue to receive necessary treatments without oral intake . It is crucial to evaluate the type of medication , its , and the urgency of administration . In some cases , adjustments may be needed to avoid or . Communication among healthcare providers , patients , and caregivers is essential to manage nil by mouth effectively while ensuring patient and comfort . Overall , the approach should be tailored to , balancing the need for fasting with the requirement for ongoing medication management . 2 tablet esomeprazole IR granules metformin 500mg can IR 20mg 500mg can paracetamol can levothyroxine tablet withheld pregnant Assess your patient's inpatient medications below and determine if an alternative is suitable . Note your patient now has a PEG tube . - pantoprazole 40mg tablet mane . . . change to - paracetamol 665mg SR tablet tds prn . . . can crush , change to - levothyroxine 50microg tablet mane . . . crush - levodopa / carbidopa 100mg / 25mg . . . crush - empagliflozin 25mg mane . . . can crush but should be - atorvastatin 20mg tablet . . . can crush but caution if - aspirin 100mg EC capsule . . . change to - magnesium 500mg tablet mane . . . can crush but caution with coadministration with - frusemide 40mg mane . . . crush - metformin 500mg SR tablet midday . . . change to tablet