The Effect of Oral Fluid Administration 1 Hour before Surgery on Preoperative Anxiety and Gastric Volume in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Today, preoperative fasting guidelines have changed, allowing clear liquid intake up to 1 h 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 h before surgery on child anxiety and gastric volumes. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A prospective, randomized, controlled study included 90 patients aged 5–12 years. The patients were randomly allocated into three groups by a computer-generated randomization: group F (<i>n</i> = 30): standard fasting group, group W (<i>n</i> = 30): patients who received oral water at a dose of 5 mL/kg 1 h before surgery, group C (<i>n</i> = 30): patients who received oral carbohydrate fluid at a dose of 5 mL/kg 1 h before surgery. All patients were assessed using the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (m-YPAS) before and 1 h 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. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The m-YPAS scores obtained after 1 h were significantly lower in group C than in the other groups (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001). Antral CSA and GRV values were lower in group C and group W than in the fasting group (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001). Parental satisfaction was highest in group C. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> This study suggests that allowing a carbohydrate-rich clear liquid intake 1 h before surgery can significantly reduce preoperative anxiety in pediatric patients without increasing the risk of aspiration.