NPO Meaning: What Does NPO Stand For Before Surgery or Tests? #2240934 (License: Personal Use)

This graphic illustrates the medical directive “NPO” (Latin for *nil per os*, meaning “nothing by mouth”), shown as a red stop sign with bold white letters. On either side, a coffee cup and hamburger are diagonally slashed, emphasizing that all oral intake-including liquids and solids-must be withheld. The design serves as a clear, universal cue for patients and staff to ensure compliance prior to anesthesia, endoscopy, or other high-risk procedures.

Used on hospital pre-op instructions, patient education portals, and clinical checklists; matches user intent seeking clarity on NPO protocols before surgery, blood tests, or imaging studies.