Dehydration can lead to lots of further problems, so it is important to ensure a tube fed patient gets enough fluid (water).  Some of this will be from the feed, some from flushes and, if the patient can take food and fluid orally, this will also contribute.

Causes:

  • Vomiting
  • Hot weather
  • Increased stoma losses
  • Inadequate fluid being administered
  • Diarrhoea
  • Pyrexia
  • Medication

Signs of dehydration include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Dark yellow and strong-smelling urine (NB: Older patients may have darker urine usually)
  • Peeing little and less than 4 times per day
  • Feeling dizzy, lightheaded and tired
  • Dry mouth, lips, and eyes.
  • Dehydration can also make constipation a lot worse. 

Treatment:

  • Ensure water flushes are given to meet the estimated fluid requirements, as recommended on the patients' feeding plan. The dietitian will have calculated the amount of water needed in addition to that provided by the feed. Water can be given either as boluses or a hydrobag and pump.
  • In very hot weather give extra water, especially if the patient is hot and sweaty. Volumes will vary depending on the patient but start with 100 - 200mls size extra drinks via the tube.

The community dietitian can help to advise how to give this additional water in complex patients. 

If you would like this information in another format, for example large print or easy read, or if you need help communicating with us, please contact:

First Community (Head Office)

Call: 01737 775450 Email:    fchc.enquiries@nhs.net    Text: 07814 639034

Address: First Community Health and Care, Consort House, 5-7 Queensway, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 1YB.

For office use only: Version 4 GU_TS003 Publication date: May 2026