NPO Explained: What ‘Nothing by Mouth’ Means for People with Diabetes

This episode explains what NPO (nil per os) means, why clinicians use it to reduce aspiration risk during anesthesia or procedures, and why it’s more complex for people with diabetes. Key points include glucose monitoring every 2–4 hours, tailored insulin and medication plans, risks from gastroparesis, and the importance of asking the care team specific questions about allowed intake and medication adjustments.