Can use of the Hydrant improve the hydration status and clinical outcomes of patients in the Acute and Community settings? Debbie Sutton-Project Manager NNM

Background Sports style drinking bottle. Adapted for use by immobile patients. Promotes independent drinking. Avoids complications associated with poor hydration.

Project Design Patient acceptability. – questionnaire Ease of use for staff. – questionnaire Test claims that hydration levels improved. – Simple data sheet Test claims that HAI and LOS reduced. – Use Hospital Episode Statistics

Eligible patients Too weak to lift or pour drinks. Immobile due to surgery or trauma. Requiring iv or sc fluids. NOT Poor swallow Reduced mental capacity.

Implementation Acute hospitals across South Central Region. – Introductory meetings – Identifying on site individual – Deliver bottles and send data collection sheets – Agree patient numbers Community and Hospice by word of mouth. Follow up visit or post back data.

Patient Questionnaire Results

Staff Questionnaire Results

Responses It was very easy to set up and to explain how it worked. It’s a young person’s thing, isn’t it dear. It really helped me feel more independent

Conclusion Hydrant appears useful for selected patients. Helpful adjunct to ward equipment. Not widely acceptable to patients or staff on wards caring for elderly people,