An innovative approach to adequate oral fluids intake in elderly patients with dementia
Care Process & Redesign
AIC Community Care Excellence Awards
Agency for Integrated Care - Intermediate and Long Term Care
31 December 2023
Increase oral fluid intake by 20% among dementia patients in Ward 1D by July 2022. The intervention effectively improved hydration in dementia patients and will continue with customizations.
Year Submitted: 2023
Published Date: 31 December 2023
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Quality Improvement, Design Thinking, Value Based Care, Patient Satisfaction
About this Content
Aims
Increase oral fluid intake by 20% among dementia patients in Ward 1D by July 2022.
Background
Dehydration is common in elderly dementia patients due to reduced thirst and refusal to drink.
Methods
Implemented flavoured drinks with appealing colors, preferred tastes, and a structured schedule.
Results
Fluid intake increased by 53% post-intervention; flavoured drinks were less time-consuming to serve.
Conclusion
The intervention effectively improved hydration in dementia patients and will continue with customizations.
Lessons Learnt
Offering familiar flavors and varying drinks increased patient acceptance and staff efficiency.
Additional Information
Awarded Clinical Experience Improvement Award (Gold)
Keywords
Dehydration, Dementia, Flavoured Drinks, Elderly Care, Oral Hydration
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | Agency for Integrated Care - Intermediate and Long Term Care |
Organization(s) Involved | St Luke Hospital |
Platform(s) | AIC Community Care Excellence Awards |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Nursing |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Geriatric Medicine |
Project Lead(s) | Pale Wah |
Project Member(s) | Yean Ting |
Connect with this contributor!
Agency for Integrated Care - quality@aic.sg