Which term denotes no food or drink by mouth?

Which term denotes no food or drink by mouth?

• A. NPO
• B. Nothing by mouth
• C. Liquid diet
• D. Full diet

Answer: (B)

Nothing by mouth denotes that no food or drink should be taken by mouth. This status is used to protect the airway and prevent aspiration, especially before surgery, certain tests, or when swallowing may be unsafe. The spelled-out phrase clearly communicates the restriction, while in clinical notes you’ll also see the common shorthand NPO (nil per os). The other choices describe permitted intake (a liquid diet, full diet) or the shorthand itself, but the question asks for the term itself, so the phrase Nothing by mouth is the best match.

Nothing by mouth denotes that no food or drink should be taken by mouth. This status is used to protect the airway and prevent aspiration, especially before surgery, certain tests, or when swallowing may be unsafe. The spelled-out phrase clearly communicates the restriction, while in clinical notes you’ll also see the common shorthand NPO (nil per os). The other choices describe permitted intake (a liquid diet, full diet) or the shorthand itself, but the question asks for the term itself, so the phrase Nothing by mouth is the best match.