Nutrition and Hydration

As a member of the nursing team, it is important that you manage nutrition and hydration well. Good management of nutrition and hydration aids patient recovery and safeguards those at risk of malnutrition.

This resource covers nutrition and hydration in relation to the Principles of Nursing Practice and in accordance with the NMC code. It includes good practice examples and resources about nutrition and hydration, in different settings.

Nutrition essentials

Malnutrition is a common health problem. There are an estimated 3 million malnourished people in the UK at any time, with many more at risk of becoming malnourished.

Hydration essentials

Many people do not drink enough and this particularly true of people who are unwell. Ask yourself: can the person see, reach for, lift and hold a drink? If the answer to this is no, then they need your help to stay hydrated.

Barriers to maintaining good nutrition and hydration

poor understanding, from the person, their family and the staff caring for them
unsuitable meal times
not being able to address personal and cultural preferences
poor motivation
poor staffing
medication
ill health
poor oral hygiene and dentition
boring or inappropriate food
lack of appropriate aids to support people to eat
social isolation
nil by mouth
sensory loss
delirium

Enablers to maintaining good nutrition and hydration

accurate assessment and screening
well informed staff and families
supportive visiting environments
acknowledgement of the issue
protected meal times
conducive environment
motivated staff
variety and choice of appropriate food and drink
accessibility to meals at a time to suit the individual
personalised care planning
encouraging family and friends to be involved
aids to support nutrition

Professional lead for nutrition and hydration:

Amanda Cheesley