In medical terminology, which of the following indicates a patient's dietary restriction of not eating or drinking?

The term that indicates a patient's dietary restriction of not eating or drinking is "NPO," which stands for "nil per os." This Latin phrase translates to "nothing by mouth," and is commonly used in medical settings to instruct that a patient should refrain from consuming food and liquids. This restriction is often implemented prior to surgical procedures, diagnostic tests, or when a patient's condition necessitates a pause in oral intake to avoid complications such as aspiration or to ensure the accuracy of tests.

The other terms have different meanings. "AC" typically refers to "before meals," indicating that certain medications or procedures should take place prior to eating. "PC" means "after meals," denoting actions that should occur following food consumption. "OOB" stands for "out of bed," which pertains to a patient's mobility status rather than dietary intake. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in healthcare settings to ensure proper patient care and adherence to dietary guidelines.