The effect of oral fluid administration 1 hour before surgery on preoperative anxiety and gastric volume in pediatric patients.

UNLABELLED: İntroduction: Today, preoperative fasting guidelines have changed, allowing clear liquid intake up to 1 hour before surgery. However, concerns remain regarding the risk of aspiration associated with clear liquid intake. This study aimed to investigate the impact of clear fluid given 1 hour before surgery on child anxiety and gastric volumes.

METHODS: A prospective, randomized, controlled study included 90 patients aged 5-12 years. Group F (n = 30): Standard fasting group. Group W (n = 30): Patients who received oral water at a dose of 5 mL/kg 1 hour before surgery. Group C (n = 30): Patients who received oral carbohydrate fluid at a dose of 5 mL/kg 1 hour before surgery. All patients were assessed using the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (m-YPAS) before and 1 hour after fluid administration. Antral cross-sectional area (CSA) was measured with ultrasonography after intubation, and gastric residual volume (GRV) was calculated. Hemodynamic data, blood sugar level, and parental satisfaction were also recorded.

RESULTS: The m-YPAS scores obtained after 1 hour were significantly lower in Group C than in the other groups (p < 0.001). Antral CSA and GRV values were lower in Group C and Group W than in the fasting group (p < 0.001). Parental satisfaction was highest in group C.

CONCLUSION: This study suggests that allowing a carbohydrate-rich clear liquid intake 1 hour before surgery can significantly reduce preoperative anxiety in pediatric patients without increasing the risk of aspiration.