Water: the forgotten nutrient

This poster illustrates the steps required to ensure that patients have sufficient water. It shows that the facilities, purchasing and supplies, and catering teams, as well as nursing staff, all have a role to play in this process. Good hydration is part of good nutrition.


It is essential that patients have access to water and that they are properly hydrated. If staff overlook the importance of water, it can result in patients not receiving the proper level of care that they need.


Improving hydration can help to reduce the use of medication. It can also assist in the management of diabetes and help to prevent pressure ulcers, constipation, urinary infections, kidney stones, heart disease, low blood pressure and many other illnesses.