New guidance on hydration in hospitals published
FACILITIES managers in hospitals and other healthcare centres are being urged to follow a new guide on hospital hydration and nutrition following a number of recent reports criticising the care of patients, particularly the elderly.
The Natural Hydration Council has published its Hydration in Hospitals guide, which outlines the importance of good nutrition for recovery and lays out top tips for NHS trusts.
Medical evidence shows that maintaining good hydration status can assist in preventing or treating certain health conditions.
The report states: "Not feeling thirsty, being nil by mouth, difficulty getting access to preferred fluids, and drinking less to avoid bathroom trips are just a few reasons why patients in hospital can become dehydrated. In addition, many hospitals now have rules that prevent certain drinks being brought in by visitors, mostly to meet food safety requirements.
"Given these barriers to getting enough fluids in hospitals, it is not surprising that patients can become dehydrated. This, if not corrected, can put their recovery, general health and wellbeing at risk."
The guide, written by nutritionist, Dr Emma Derbyshire, provides a list of signs to look out for, plus an overview of those patients most at risk of dehydration. It also provides a list of hints and tips. They include:
- Encourage patients to drink small amounts of water regularly throughout the day
- Help patients by ensuring they have access to water at all times and can reach and lift their cup or glass
- Keep a supply of water cool and fresh by each bedside
- Encourage older patients to consume more fluids if their urine is dark yellow or amber
- Encourage older patients to drink water on a regular basis as they may not experience thirst until they are already dehydrated
- When dealing with patients who have difficulty going to the toilet, encourage them to sip small amounts throughout the day
- Associate fluid intake with specific moments such as when medications and meals are distributed
It is not surprising that patients can become dehydrated. This, if not corrected, can put their recovery, general health and wellbeing at risk.
The document gives a recommended level of water intake based on healthy patients. This is 1,750ml a day for men and 1,400ml a day for women. The report states: "Medical evidence shows that maintaining good hydration status can assist in preventing or treating certain health conditions."