A hospital ward is using new colourful cups to help ensure patients are well hydrated while under their care.
The orthopaedic ward at the University Hospital of North Tees is trialling a new range of brightly coloured cups and water jugs for patients.
Cups
They will help staff identify patients at risk of not having the appropriate hydration.
With the help of the nutrition and hydration collaborative group at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, ward matron Cheryl Camilleri has already carried out similar work in her previous role.
As a nursing sister in urology, with the help of her team she created personalised noticeboards with patient’s own eating requirements and a six-step checklist for staff to follow.
This included observing the position of the patient, hand washing, oral care, making sure the area is prepared, checking if any help is needed and that all patients have eaten and drank.
Once the trial is complete, the special cups could be used across the organisation.
Hydration
Cheryl said: “We know that the right nutrition and hydration of patients in our care is vital in helping with their recovery.
“These cups will be used to help staff identify those patients particularly at risk of not drinking enough fluids – including the elderly and those with dementia and delirium.
“They are also specially designed so that they are easier for patients to hold and to drink from.
“We are also encouraging all staff to take ownership over this – if they see a patient who is having a challenge eating or drinking, then we need to ensure they have the support they need to do so.
“With the support of the whole team we can help provide the very best care to our patients.”
