Dehydration
Posted by Patti on November 16th, 2004 / 
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Dehydration
The CNA’s role in Long Term Care Settings
Many words have been written about this topic. Major studies have been done. The cause of such concern for many nurses, doctors and families- has found a place here for your education. CNA’s should have a very good understanding of what this condition is, what can cause it and how to prevent it. Of all the things we do, making sure our residents get enough fluids is one of the most important.
Risk Factors:
· Alzheimer’s, or other dementia
· Major psychiatric disorders
· Depression
· Stroke
· Repeated infections
· Diabetes
· Malnutrition
· Urinary incontinence
· History of dehydration
· 4 or more chronic conditions
· Use of diuretics, antidepressants, psychotropics, or anti-anxiety medications, laxatives, or steroids
· Chronic cognitive impairment
· Inadequate nutritional status
· Acute situations: vomiting, diarrhea and/or fevers
· Needs help with holding a cup/glass
· Has trouble swallowing
· Coughs often during meals and especially while drinking
· Frequently vomits
· Is confused
Symptoms of dehydration include the following:
· Drinks less than 6 cups of liquids per day
· Dry mouth
· Cracked lips
· Sunken eyes
· Dark urine
· Confusion in resident who isn’t normally so
· Fever
What can a CNA do?
· Make sure you offer/encourage residents to drink
· Keep pitchers of water where resident can reach for
· Give drinks every hour
· Give sips between bites of food
· Make sure the nurse is aware of the resident’s intake of fluids
· Ask nurse if resident should be on I/O record
· Enlist help of family/friends- have them bring in special drinks if ok
June 9th, 2005 at 9:52 pm
Is it O.K. to copy articles for clinical group
May 26th, 2006 at 11:35 am
I have just been appointed Caregiver Advocate for my company. I am looking for valuable information to share with them. I found your website and like what I see. It’s nice to have a place to exchange ideas and info. I will return often.
Thank you for your help.
Edna B.