COPE Health Scholars Practice Test

What should you check for prior to feeding a patient?

1. Pockets of food

2. An NPO sign

3. Patient's allergies

4. Time since last meal

The correct answer is: An NPO sign

Prior to feeding a patient, checking for an NPO (Nil Per Os) sign is crucial because this indicates that the patient is not allowed to have any food or drink. This restriction can be due to various medical reasons, such as preparation for surgery, recovery from a procedure, or specific health conditions where oral intake might pose a risk. Adhering to NPO orders is essential for patient safety, as it helps prevent aspiration, complications, or negative reactions that could arise if the patient consumes food or fluids when they are not supposed to. While being aware of pockets of food, the patient's allergies, and the time since the last meal are all important aspects of patient care, they do not take precedence over understanding NPO status, which directly impacts whether a patient should be fed at that moment. Pockets of food could indicate difficulties with swallowing, allergies could lead to adverse reactions, and knowing the last meal time can inform feeding decisions, but these considerations come after confirming a patient's eligibility to eat.