DC12-Meeting Nutritional and Hydration Needs Policy

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

Meeting Nutritional and Hydration Needs Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all individuals receiving domiciliary care services are provided with adequate nutrition and hydration to maintain health, prevent malnutrition and dehydration, and support overall well-being. {{org_field_name}} is committed to meeting the requirements of Regulation 14 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014, which outlines the responsibilities of care providers in ensuring that service users receive appropriate food and drink as part of their care and support plan.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, including care workers, supervisors, and managers who are involved in planning, preparing, or assisting with food and drink provision for service users. It covers all aspects of nutritional care, including food preparation, dietary preferences, medical requirements, and the monitoring of fluid intake to ensure hydration needs are met. It also applies to those who support individuals with complex needs, including those requiring enteral feeding or additional nutritional support.

3. Our Commitment to Meeting Nutritional and Hydration Needs

{{org_field_name}} recognises that good nutrition and hydration are fundamental to maintaining health and well-being. We are committed to ensuring that all service users receive meals and fluids appropriate to their dietary needs, preferences, and medical conditions. Care plans are developed in collaboration with the service user, their family, and healthcare professionals to ensure that dietary requirements are identified and met. We also prioritise the dignity and independence of service users by encouraging choice and participation in meal planning where possible.

4. Assessing Nutritional and Hydration Needs

Upon commencement of care, a comprehensive assessment is conducted to determine the nutritional and hydration needs of each service user. This assessment considers dietary preferences, cultural and religious considerations, medical conditions, allergies, and any swallowing difficulties that may require specialist intervention. The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) or other appropriate assessments may be used to identify risks of malnutrition or dehydration. Regular reviews are conducted to ensure that care plans remain relevant and responsive to the changing needs of service users.

5. Food and Drink Provision

We ensure that service users have access to meals and drinks that are nutritious, balanced, and suited to their dietary needs. Staff assist service users with food preparation where necessary, taking into account their abilities and preferences. Where individuals are unable to prepare meals themselves, arrangements are made for meal deliveries, home-cooked meals, or external catering services. Fluids are offered regularly throughout the day, and staff are trained to recognise signs of dehydration, encouraging service users to drink appropriate amounts of fluids.

6. Supporting Special Dietary Needs

{{org_field_name}} recognises that some service users have specific dietary requirements due to medical conditions such as diabetes, coeliac disease, or renal conditions. In such cases, food and drink are prepared following guidance from healthcare professionals. Texture-modified diets are provided for those with swallowing difficulties, in line with the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI). Religious and cultural dietary practices are fully respected, and appropriate meal options are made available in accordance with individual beliefs and customs.

7. Monitoring and Record Keeping

To ensure compliance with care plans and regulatory requirements, our staff are responsible for monitoring food and fluid intake where necessary. This includes maintaining accurate records of meals and drinks consumed, particularly for individuals at risk of malnutrition or dehydration. Where concerns arise, appropriate action is taken, including seeking medical advice, referring to dietitians, or modifying care plans accordingly. All records are securely stored and shared with relevant healthcare professionals as required.

8. Training and Competency of Staff

All staff involved in food preparation or assistance with eating and drinking receive training on food hygiene, nutrition, and hydration. Additional training is provided on specific dietary needs, including dysphagia management, fortified diets, and cultural dietary considerations. Staff are also trained to recognise and respond to signs of malnutrition and dehydration, ensuring that timely interventions are made to prevent complications.

9. Encouraging Independence and Choice

We believe in promoting independence wherever possible. Service users are encouraged to participate in meal selection, preparation, and decision-making regarding their dietary needs. Our staff provide appropriate support based on individual capabilities, enabling service users to maintain control over their diet and hydration. Support may include verbal prompting, physical assistance, or the use of adapted utensils for those with limited mobility.

10. Safeguarding and Risk Management

{{org_field_name}} has a duty to safeguard service users from neglect, including failure to provide adequate nutrition and hydration. Staff are trained to recognise indicators of neglect, malnutrition, and dehydration, and they are required to report any concerns immediately. Risk assessments are conducted to identify potential issues related to food and drink provision, and safeguarding procedures are followed in accordance with local authority guidance.

11. Compliance with Regulatory Standards

We are committed to adhering to all relevant legislation and guidelines regarding nutrition and hydration in domiciliary care. Compliance with Regulation 14 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 is monitored through internal audits, staff training, and regular care plan reviews. Any deficiencies identified in food and drink provision are addressed promptly to ensure the highest standard of care.

12. Policy Review and Continuous Improvement

This policy is reviewed annually or in response to changes in legislation, best practice guidance, or service user needs. Feedback from staff, service users, and their families is actively sought to identify areas for improvement. {{org_field_name}} is committed to continuously enhancing our approach to nutrition and hydration to ensure that all service users receive the highest quality of care and support.

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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