40 Reported hydration intake of older patients in an emergency department

Abstract

Abstract Background Older people are vulnerable to dehydration & inadequate fluid intake is a major contributor to preventable dehydration. Poor oral intake of fluids can be related to the inability to feed independently and having poor availability and access to fluids. This study examined older patient’s ability to access fluids in an Emergency Department (ED) setting. Methods A point prevalence study was undertaken in the ED over one working day. Patients in the ED who were aged over sixty five, alert conscious & no upper limb fracture were asked to participate in this survey by completing a task of pouring water from a standard ward water jug weighing 1.5 kg into a cup. In addition patients were asked a series of questions about their water intake and if they had adequate access to water in the ED. 20 patients participated in the study (11 Females 9 Males.) Results 70% of patients were able to lift the jug and pour water into a cup without assistance. 15% of patients stated they had access to sufficient fluids. All of these patients had brought their own drinks to the ED. 85% of patients stated they did not have access to sufficient fluids. Reported fluid intake ranged from 100 mL to 2litres. 70% of patient’s fluid intake was less than 1 l over 24 hour period. 11 patients had access to a table or overbed tray to place a drink on. The preferred cold drink option was water for 85% of patients. Conclusion The majority of older patients in the ED reported they did not have access to sufficient fluids. Fluid intake over a 24 hour period was less than 1 litre. Older adults in the ED are at risk of dehydration. Patients preferred drink choice of water could be made more readily available in the ED setting.