Tullamore orthopaedic patients now allowed to sip water before surgery

‘Sip Til Send’ - a new approach to preoperative drinking for patients in Tullamore hospital no longer requires Orthopaedic trauma and elective patients to fluid fast for hours before surgery.

Patients can continue to sip clear fluids until sent to theatre. This avoids prolonged periods of fasting and keeps patients hydrated before theatre. Staying hydrated helps patients feel better, reduces headaches, nausea and anxiety.

Allison Burke, CNM3 Trauma Coordinator, Midlands Regional Hospital Tullamore, said: “We know from patient feedback that having to go for prolonged periods of time without being able to drink is uncomfortable and causes dehydration. The new guidance, known as ‘Sip Til Send’, aims to make patients more comfortable before their procedures, but also provides benefits afterwards too.

“Under the new guidance, all adult patients who require sedation or an anaesthetic will be allowed to sip a small cup of water (up to 170ml) each hour before their procedure - unless stated otherwise by your clinician. Infants and children are also included under this new approach with water volume allowed determined by their weight.

“Previously, for safety reasons patients were allowed to drink water up until 2 hours before procedures. Some patients were at times being fasted for much longer while waiting to go to Theatre, causing an unpleasant experience. Patients have now been saying that they feel more comfortable.”

Dr Mohan Mugawar, Consultant Anaesthetist MRHT said: “This emerging initiative practice has shown to be simple and safe with improved patient satisfaction. Many patients are commenting that they feel better post procedure because of it.”

Dr Ayesha Zahid Maha Maha, Consultant Anaesthetist MRHT said: “Dehydration is proven to be bad for the patient and clinically dehydration is bad for the Anaesthetist”. We encourage patients to sip water as directed by their clinical team to keep both patient and Anaesthetist happy.”

Allison concludes, “We have already received so much positive feedback from our Orthopaedic patients. It is fantastic to see the difference this has made in a short space of time. Sip Til Send will hopefully be rolled out hospital wide soon for all patients requiring surgery, not just orthopaedic patients.”

Patients are advised to speak to their clinician and hospital teams about Sip Til Send and what this means to you ahead of your procedure.