Nüchternlage

Nüchternlage is a term used in German-speaking medicine to denote the pre-procedural fasting state of a patient, i.e., the condition in which no food or drink is consumed for a defined period before certain medical procedures. The word combines nüchtern (fasting, abstinent) and Lage (state or position). It is not a physical position but a preparatory requirement that aims to reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia and to ensure reliable test results.

In practice, patients are instructed to avoid solid food for typically 6 to 8 hours before procedures requiring sedation or general anesthesia, and to limit fluids to a short period before the procedure (often 2 hours). Clear fluids may be allowed up to 2 hours before; however, this can vary by institution and patient factors such as age, pregnancy, or diabetes.

Nüchternlage also encompasses medical conditions that affect fasting tolerance, such as diabetes, where adjusted plans are necessary to avoid hypo- or hyperglycemia. It is important to follow institutional guidelines and communicate any recent meals, medications, or symptoms to the medical team.

In examinations and tests, the fasting state can influence results, particularly lipid and glucose measurements. Some guidelines advocate non-fasting samples for certain tests, reflecting ongoing debates about the necessity and duration of fasting.

See also: fasting state, fasting guidelines, preoperative preparation.