Authors (including presenting author) :
Yeung SY(1), Chan PY(1), Choi WM(1), Li HK(1), Chan KK(1), Wong MK(1), Wong CW(1), Sham CL(1), Tsoi YK(1), Chung YY(2), Chan HL(3) (1) Department of Medicine, Haven of Hope Hospital (2) Kowloon East Cluster Continence Nurse Consultant (3) Nursing Services Division, Haven of Hope Hospital
Affiliation :
Yeung SY(1), Chan PY(1), Choi WM(1), Li HK(1), Chan KK(1), Wong MK(1), Wong CW(1), Sham CL(1), Tsoi YK(1), Chung YY(2), Chan HL(3) (1) Department of Medicine, Haven of Hope Hospital (2) Kowloon East Cluster Continence Nurse Consultant (3) Nursing Services Division, Haven of Hope Hospital
Keyword 2: :
Hydration Round
Keyword 5: :
In-Patient Hydration
Keyword 6: :
Enhancing In-Patient
Introduction :
Dehydration remains a prevalent yet preventable concern within the rehabilitation setting, particularly among older adults and individuals with stroke or cognitive impairment. Reported incidence rates range between 36% and 62%, contributing to adverse outcomes such as urinary tract infections, delirium, falls, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. Evidence suggests that structured hydration rounds enhance fluid intake and mitigate dehydration-related risks. Nevertheless, deficiencies in staff awareness and patient engagement continue to be observed at Haven of Hope Hospital (HHH). This quality improvement programme was undertaken to address these gaps and strengthen continence care practices.
Objectives :
The programme aimed to enhance staff awareness and patient engagement regarding hydration risks and preventive strategies, while hydration monitoring through intake and output (I&O) charting. It sought to promote patient-centered hydration care by offering preferred fluids and regular prompting, and to improve clinical outcomes by reducing dehydration-related complications and enhancing patient comfort.
Methodology :
A pilot program was conducted between May and October 2025 in the Geriatric and Medical Wards 2A and 5L. Training sessions were delivered to nurses and patient care assistants (PCAs) through four identical workshops. Structured hydration rounds were implemented, and patients’ oral intake was documented in intake and output (I&O) charts. Staff knowledge was evaluated using pre- and post-tests, while compliance audits and patient-reported comfort scores were collected to assess the program’s effectiveness.
Result & Outcome :
A total of 43 patients participated in the pilot. Compliance with hydration rounds reached 85–95% across wards, with average daily oral fluid intake increasing by 20–40% beyond mealtimes. Staff knowledge improved significantly, as post-test scores demonstrated enhanced recognition of dehydration signs and exclusion criteria. Clinical indicators showed a ~30% reduction in dehydration-related symptoms, including fewer reports of dry mouth and poor skin turgor. Patient-reported outcomes highlighted decreased perceptions of excessive thirst and improved ease of bowel and bladder elimination, reflecting greater comfort and patient-centered hydration care. Preliminary findings confirm feasibility and efficacy, though extended follow-up is needed to assess sustained impacts on length of stay and complication rates.
