General (ie not medical) care in hospital

[Lapbowl]

FIL was admitted to hospital on Monday night. Appears to have flu. Ambulance crew were unconcerned about oxygen levels but concerned he appeared dehydrated.

We got there in Tuesday lunchtime, where he was been kept in for observation. He'd had one cup of coffee that morning and his water jug was empty. When I asked where I could refill it I was told they'll be round to do it, but we'd been there for an hour, so it had been empty for at least an hour.

You hear a lot of these stories and I know staff are pressed for time etc, but surely making sure poorly people have access to water improves their chances of recovery/not deteriorating? Why do staff an managers allow such simple things to fail?

I know in large part it will be time, but why aren't people finding ways to fix this? Or is FIL's experience a one off?

I cant tell you in general but in my hospital drink rounds are closely scheduled and the person doing it has to sign to say if the patient has accepted a drink or not.
Changes of water jugs are done at specific times too. Patients who are thought to be at risk of not eating or drinking enough are put on special charts to monitor their intake.

But I do understand that sometimes things are busy and sometimes things get missed. Top tips- bring some bottled water or drinks in for your relative.
Also you wont be allowed in the kitchen for health and safety reasons but nothing says you cant take the jug to the kitchen door and waylay a member of staff! (even if they are busy they should be able to pop in the kitchen and get some fresh water).

The wards in our hospital all (I think) have a water fountain where you can get fresh drinking water.

That's great if you're lucid and mobile, or have a visitor to do it for you. Otherwise it's as much use as a chocolate fireguard...

Yes, this is what really upset me actually. What if he'd had no one?

On the wards I’ve worked on for years all the staff are really attentive. Can you raise your concerns with the nurse in charge or ward sister?

They should have water available at all times. I mean they seriously shouldn’t be almost rationing it! No wonder people get dehydrated in hospital and end up needing to be on a drip. Terrible care.