Improving nutrition and hydration in hospital: the nurse's responsibility

Ensuring that the nutrition and hydration needs of patients in hospital are met is part of the nurse's role. Adequate nutrition and hydration is vital for good health, from both a physical and psychological perspective, and should be considered a priority by nurses. Actions required by nurses may include addressing potential barriers and obstacles that may prevent patients receiving adequate food and drink. Ensuring patients are comfortable and positioned appropriately in preparation for mealtimes, regularly checking patients while eating and drinking, and conducting ongoing assessment to identify those who require assistance with their meals is also important. Documentation in care plans and appropriate delegation of nutrition-related tasks to team members, such as healthcare assistants, should also be considered.