Physiology of thirst and drinking: implication for nursing practice.

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Nursing Science

Background:

• Thirst and drinking are fundamental for maintaining body water balance and survival.
• Thirst is a sensation often linked to a dry mouth and the urge to drink, triggered by factors like dehydration or medication.
• Drinking encompasses the motor actions involved in liquid ingestion, influenced by factors such as liquid temperature and taste.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of thirst and drinking behaviors in human physiology.
• To underscore the limited nursing research concerning the assessment and management of thirst and drinking behaviors.
• To identify the need for further nursing research in this area.

Main Methods:

• This abstract is a review of the physiological and behavioral aspects of thirst and drinking.
• It discusses the common causes and manifestations of thirst.
• It also touches upon the influence of various factors on drinking behavior.

Main Results:

• Thirst and drinking are complex physiological processes essential for survival.
• Factors such as dehydration, medication, and sensory input (taste, temperature) significantly influence thirst and drinking.
• Altered thirst sensations can manifest as discomfort, diminished perception in the elderly, or compulsive drinking.

Conclusions:

• Nurses frequently encounter patient complaints of thirst.
• There is a notable gap in nursing research regarding the assessment, diagnosis, and intervention for altered thirst and drinking behaviors.
• Further research is needed to improve nursing care for individuals experiencing thirst-related issues.