Prevention of XXXX in hospital inpatients.

@entity1 @entity2700
BACKGROUND: The adverse effects of @entity2700 in hospital inpatients can be severe, resulting in morbidity and even mortality. This study examined the ability of surgical @entity1 in a district general hospital to undertake the seemingly minor but critically important task of taking on oral fluids using the conventional, hospital-supplied, water jug and glass. METHODS: Surgical @entity1 receiving oral fluids were interviewed on two occasions. A questionnaire assessed the @entity1 's capacity to use the water jug and recorded his or her experience. The @entity1 's ability to use jugs with varying volumes of water was then observed. RESULTS: Some @entity1 simply could not physically lift the conventional jug of water and often went thirsty; 42% of @entity1 could not reach the jug of water at the time of interview; 31% of @entity1 found the simple task of pouring a glass of water difficult, very difficult or impossible. CONCLUSION: @entity1 need their individual requirements to be assessed and their preferences addressed on admission to hospital, by means of a fluid-assessment chart. Alternative methods of hydration should also be considered. Education and training on the importance of hydration remain key. These small changes could improve @entity1 hydration and independence, thus preventing avoidable harm.
