Abstract
Objective: This study aims to examine validity and sensitivity of two visual analogue scales (VASs), measuring thirst intensity and thirst distress, and compare them with a validated thirst discomfort scale (TDS). Methods: This is a non-interventional, prospective and cross-sectional study. Researchers recruited 161 patients from an acute surgical hospital, who were identified at time of interaction as fasting. Data was collected using a questionnaire, which included the TDS. Criterion validity and construct validity was tested for the two VASs. Sensitivity was assessed based on the amount of time fasting from solid foods or fluids. Results: Results showed the VAS for thirst intensity, the VAS for thirst distress and the average of the VAS scores correlated with the TDS (ρ=0.66, 0.81 and 0.72 respectively, all p<0.001). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the VAS is a valid and sensitive patient-reported outcome measure for thirst distress in fasting patients. Keywords: fasting, thirst distress, thirst discomfort scale, visual analogue scale.
Highlights
Fasting is often required before investigations and procedures needing sedation or anesthesia[1]
The scores generated from the thirst discomfort scale (TDS) were used as the reference to assess the criterion validity of the visual analogue scales (VASs)
A strong positive, significant correlation was found between the VAS measuring thirst intensity and the TDS (ρ=0.66, p
Summary
Fasting is often required before investigations and procedures needing sedation or anesthesia[1]. There is strong (Level A) evidence to support reduced fasting times, allowing the safe consumption of solids up to six hours, and clear fluids up to two hours prior to a procedure requiring anaesthesia[1]. These recommendations have been adopted within local governing organisations[2] but implementation into clinical practice has been slow. Previous qualitative research has shown high levels of distress in patients fasted for extended periods of time This is likely due to the physiological response and due Journal of Perioperative Nursing Volume 34 Number 4 Summer 2021 acorn.org.au e-38 to the emotional significance of food and a consequent lack of autonomy[8]. This relationship with food is significant as food and feeding is symbolic of caregiving and return to health[8]
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