A patient is scheduled for a diagnostic test the following day and to be kept NPO (nothing by mouth) after midnight. What is the best nursing action?

A. Call the health-care provider to see if intravenous fluids are needed: This is not usually necessary unless the patient has a condition that requires it. It's more important to ensure NPO status is maintained. B. Increase fluid intake prior to midnight to make sure the patient remains hydrated: This could be done, but it is less important than ensuring the patient follows the NPO instructions. C. Remove the patient's water pitcher at the bedside shortly before midnight: This is the correct answer. Removing the pitcher helps prevent the patient from accidentally drinking water and violating NPO status. D. This is an example of a STAT order and should be documented in the patient's chart: NPO orders are not STAT orders; they are routine orders related to the preparation for a procedure.