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PATIENT INFORMATION

Can I drink water before surgery?

What many guidelines say

Many modern fasting guidelines allow clear liquids, including water, until about 2 hours before anaesthesia in selected healthy patients having elective procedures. This differs from the older practice of routinely stopping all drinks from midnight.

This does not mean every patient can drink up to 2 hours before surgery. The fasting instruction given for your procedure takes priority.

Why your own instruction matters

Some patients have a higher aspiration risk and some procedures or hospitals use different protocols. If you have been told to stop all liquids at a particular time, do not ignore that instruction because of something you read online.

Useful questions to ask

  • Until what time can I drink water?
  • Is there a limit on how much?
  • If my operation is delayed, can I be given more fluids?
  • Can I take my permitted medicines with a sip of water?

If you feel very thirsty or unwell while waiting

Tell a member of staff. If there is a delay, the team can review whether you can drink or whether you need fluids through a drip.