Section 1

Section 1- Nutrition and HydrationWhat?The event followed as such, Mr. X was admitted to the cardiology ward due to Heart condition, because of that he develop confusion and became very forgetfulness. Malnutrition and dehydration are both causes of illness according to James Cummings ( Chief Nursing officer of England). (NHS England, 2014). As a routine admission, I have made Mr. X comfortable in bed, weights and observations was taken and recorded. While the nurse asking information from Mr. X, I was told by the nurse to put him into the cardiac monitor and print out ECG (electrocardiogram). Looking to his situation now, I felt so empathy with him and had to help him in his fluid and food diet. I asked him if he is diabetic and Mr. X replied yes, so I did check his blood sugar, it was in a normal range. As health care professionals I’m expected to work to the code of ethics a set principle that guides my professional conduct with clients and colleagues. In working relationship, I will serve my client with integrity, competence, and will treat them with respect and dignity. I will offer services which I’m qualified of and keeping confidential information and I will decide independently and communicate effectively. (NHS constitution, 2015)Providing food and fluids has great meaning to many people specially when they need help and prompting like Mr. X, as they often relate the provision of being dehydrated to comfort and nourishment, in order to preserved life. A person’s cultural background can have great impact on their values and beliefs regarding this topic and should never underestimated according to the Human rights. Water is essential for life and it’s very important to get the right amount, however there are lots of mixed messages about how much fluid to be taken a day when the patient is on fluid restrictions this would not help. Drinking water is a great choice because it delivers fluids without calories or sugars that can potentially damage teeth. (NHS, England 2015)So What?Reflecting on the event made me feel positive, I have comforted the patient and trying to help him to increase fluid intake as his skin are dry. Some family members insist on trying to continue to feed their loved one even when it is no longer safe to do so. In these circumstances it is important to talk to them about comfort measures, such as regular mouth care, wetting the patient’s lips and using lip balms and make them feel that they are being cared. If the family are so distress about the thought of dehydration, a small amount of intravenous fluid maybe an acceptable compromise. In this way to show that Mr.X is not been neglected and we are doing something for him.Many people do not drink enough and this particularly true of people who are unwell. Mr. X was not helping himself in fluid and diet. Monitoring regularly for signs of hydration is very important. In the ward, signs and effects of hydrations are strictly monitored such as: thirst, feeling dizzy ,dry, sticky mouth, headache, passing small amount dark, concentrated urine, low blood pressure/hypotension, rapid pulse/tachycardia. Monitoring Hydration that includes: recording input/ output where appropriate, physical assessment, asking the person if he or she is thirsty. I noticed that several symptoms for Mr. X appeared dehydrated or not drinking enough, I have approach him and encouraged him to drink. I used a beaker to help him get the fluid as he is un able to drink in the cup. I have explained to him about dehydration. It is how care is being given based on empathy with compassion, respect and dignity. It can also be described as intelligent kindness, and is central to how people perceive their care. Communication is the central of successful caring relationship and to effective team working. (NHS, 2015)Now What?After being involved in the situation, I have gained knowledge on my communication abilities. I felt that I have gained more courage in my ways of applying the 6 C’s towards my patients and as well to the family. I have also understood the importance of Nutrition and Hydration to keep my patient feel being valued. It has been studied and implemented that poor nutritional and fluid intake can threaten the safety people in all care, that is why keeping them hydrated is the way to save them from infection or illness. Commitment is very essential to show my patients I care. The risk can be widespread, have damaging consequences and need to be understood by all nursing staff and addressed as patient safety issues.I have also learned and ensure that reporting incidents is important, it is the safety of patients and the environment. It is important that the staff are encourage to report these issues whenever they have encountered any of the risk factors of nutrition and hydration. (legislation ,2019)Section 1 References: Cumming, J., 2014., Malnutrition and Hydration. >https://www.england.nhs.uk>health/a-z Department of Health, 2015. NHS Constitution for England. >https//www.gov.uk/…/the-nhs-constitution-for England The National Health Service, 2019. The legislation.>https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015National Health Service, 2015. Nutrition and Hydration guide.>https://www.england.nhs.uk>