Comparing Water and Carbohydrate Drinks Before Elective Caesarean Delivery Using Bedside Stomach Ultrasound

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are comparing two approaches to drinking before elective caesarean delivery in women who are awake with spinal anesthesia. The study investigates whether sipping water or a carbohydrate-rich drink while waiting for surgery affects stomach contents and recovery quality. This research includes women who have fasted fully upon hospital arrival and are eligible for the current Sip Til Send policy, aiming to assess safety and patient preference. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups a water group, who may sip up to one cup 170 ml of water per hour, and a carbohydrate group, who may sip the same amount of a standardized carbohydrate-rich drink. Stomach volume will be measured by bedside ultrasound twice once before starting the sipping and again immediately prior to surgery. Urine ketones will be tested during surgery, and adverse outcomes like nausea, vomiting, and newborn low blood sugar will be monitored. During the study, participants will undergo gastric ultrasounds to estimate stomach contents and complete a recovery questionnaire 24 hours after delivery. Medical records will be reviewed to identify any complications. The study is planned to last about three to six months. Both participants and their newborns will not have additional invasive tests beyond routine care, ensuring safety and comfort throughout their involvement.

Comparison of 'Sip Til Send' Regimens Prior to Elective Caesarean Delivery Using Bedside Gastric Ultrasound