Nutrition now
Nutrition Now is a new clinical campaign launched by the RCN to raise standards of nutrition and hydration in hospitals and the community.
Food and water are essential elements of care - as vital as medication and other types of treatment.
This campaign gives nurses the practical tools, support and evidence they need to make nutrition a priority in the area where they work.
Publications associated with this campaign include the RCN Principles for Nutrition and Hydration (RCN publication code 003 157), plus our Hospital Hydration Best Practice Toolkit and a series of factsheets based on The Ten Key Characteristics for good nutritional care in hospitals. These last two publications have been produced in partnership with the National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA).
In May 2008, the RCN released a new national clinical guideline on perioperative fasting endorsed by the Royal College of Anaesthetists and the British Association of Day Surgery.
The campaign is supported by Abbot Nutrition. Find out more about the company on the Abbott Nutrition website.
To become a supporter of Nutrition Now, please email:
Core messages
- Nutrition and hydration are essential to care, as vital as medication and other types of treatment.
- It is our responsibility as members of a multi-disciplinary team to ensure patients in our care have the right nutrition and hydration at the right time.
- Working practices that prioritise nutrition and hydration can overcome the challenges that stand in the way of excellence.