Can You Have Water When Nil by Mouth?
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                The long-standing medical rule of being 'nil by mouth' (NBM) or 'nil per os' has evolved significantly over time, with many modern guidelines now permitting clear fluids, including water, for a limited time before a procedure. While the traditional practice dictated nothing at all, current protocols recognize the benefits of hydration while minimizing the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.