What does "NPO" indicate on a kennel card for a hospitalized patient?

"NPO" stands for "nil per os," which translates to "nothing by mouth" in Latin. This designation is typically used for hospitalized patients to indicate that they should not consume any food or fluids orally. This might be necessary for a variety of reasons, such as preparing for surgery, preventing aspiration, or managing certain medical conditions that require the gastrointestinal system to remain empty.

Understanding the implications of an NPO status is crucial for veterinary staff and caregivers as it impacts feeding schedules, fluid administration, and overall patient management. The other choices do not accurately represent the specific meaning of NPO. For instance, stating that normal food is allowed or that playtime is restricted does not align with the interpretation of NPO. Additionally, while medication needs could involve consideration of NPO status, the term itself does not specify this and is focused solely on dietary restrictions.