Research recommendations

The Guideline Development Group has made the following recommendations for research, on the basis of its review of the evidence.

The group regards these recommendations as the most important research areas to improve guidance and patient care in the future.

  • When should the last feed of breast or formula milk be given preoperatively to infants?
  • When can tea and coffee (with milk) be given safely preoperatively?
  • Does preoperative fasting alter the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting?
  • What type and quantity of oral fluid or food can be given postoperatively?
  • Are there other important factors that limit the intake of oral fluids or foods postoperatively? For example, operation type, patient age, effect of opioids?

The research recommendations are detailed in the full guideline on perioperative fasting in adults and children (PDF 2.43MB)  [see how to access PDF files] .