A step forward for patient-centred fasting guidelines : a reply

Abstract

We thank de Loughry and Lavelle for their thoughtful comments regarding our study. We agree that a single document addressing most questions about peri-operative fasting is important. However, we believe that one document cannot cover all patient groups and circumstances without losing sight of the bigger picture. The focus of this international, multidisciplinary consensus statement is to improve the quality of patient care by minimising periprocedural fasting times while addressing all healthcare professionals, from small ambulatory units to tertiary care hospitals. These medical facilities have different barriers to implementing shorter fasting times. To address this, we invited a very broad stakeholder panel; however, such a broad panel is not suitable for addressing specific issues relating to patient groups. [excerpt]