Does a child need to fast before a physical examination?
Disease description:
The child’s school has notified us that a physical examination will be conducted tomorrow, but no specific details about the examination items or precautions were provided. Could you please advise whether the child needs to fast before the examination?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ding Hongfang
In general, children are required to fast before undergoing a physical examination, as eating may affect the results of certain tests—such as blood glucose levels and liver function tests—and may also compromise the accuracy of abdominal ultrasound imaging in assessing the morphology and structure of the liver and gallbladder. Therefore, fasting is typically required for pediatric physical examinations. You may bring food for your child and offer it after the examination—if fasting is not required for the specific tests being performed.
