Patients' experience of thirst while being conscious and mechanically ventilated in the intensive care unit

ConclusionPatients associate feelings of desperation, anxiety and powerlessness with the experience of thirst. These feelings have a negative impact on their psychological well‐being. A strategy in the ICU that includes no sedation for critically ill patients in need of MV introduces new demands on the nurses who must care for patients who are struggling with thirst. Relevance to clinical practiceThis study shows that despite several practical attempts to relieve thirst, it remains a paramount problem for the patients. ICU nurses need to increase their focus on issues of thirst and dry mouth, which are two closely related issues for the patients. Communication may be a way to involve the patients, recognize and draw attention to their problem.
Source: Nursing in Critical Care - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Research Source Type: research