Nutrition and Hydration in Care Settings
Good nutrition and hydration are fundamental to health and wellbeing, especially for those receiving care. Yet malnutrition and dehydration are still common and often preventable. This course is designed for anyone involved in preparing, serving, or assisting with meals and drinks in a care setting.
Learners will explore the signs and risks of poor nutrition and fluid intake, along with simple, effective strategies to promote healthy eating and hydration. The course emphasises a person-centred approach, practical guidance, and awareness of individual needs, conditions, and preferences.
Aligned with Standard 8 of the Care Certificate, this course also touches on the basics of food hygiene and includes helpful tools and professional guidance to support best practice.
What You Will Learn
- What malnutrition and dehydration are, and why they matter in care
- Common internal and external factors that affect food and fluid intake
- Key signs, symptoms, and risks of poor nutrition and hydration
- The principles of “eating for health” and promoting healthy choices
- The five main food groups and essential nutrients for wellbeing
- The importance of hydration and how to encourage fluid intake
- Roles and responsibilities of care staff in promoting nutrition and wellbeing
- Nutritional care planning using a person-centred approach
- Supporting professionals and available eating/drinking aids
- Understanding digestion and how it affects food intake
- Key terms used in nutritional care
- Basic food hygiene considerations when supporting with meals
Certification
All participants will receive a certificate of achievement upon successful completion of the course.
