September In-service September 24, 2013 at 2:00pm

Thickening Liquids
Following doctors orders is an important duty for all the kitchen staff. It can be challenging at times, however, to know exactly what the doctor wants. The following descriptions may help clarify how to provide patient food that is consistent with doctors orders.

Thickening Liquids: Follow the directions for Thick It 1. Nectar Thick:

Liquids that have been thickened to the consistency that coats and drips off a spoon, similar to unset gelatin All thin liquids like water, coffee, apple, grape, orange, & grapefruit juice, & any broth based soups need to be thickened Ensure, Glucerna, V-8 juice, & cream based soups are already Nectar Thick consistency On average 1 Tablespoon of Thick It per 4 fl oz

2. Honey Thick:
Liquids that have been thickened to honey or molasses consistency The liquid flows off a spoon in a ribbon, just like actual honey On average 2 Tablespoon of Thick It per 4 fl oz

3. Pudding Thick: Liquids that have been thickened to a pudding consistency

They remain on the spoon in a soft mass On average 3 Tablespoon of Thick It per 4 fl oz

Importance of Thickening Liquids:

Dysphagia: Swallowing difficulties Patients who have difficulty swallowing thin liquids often must drink thickened liquids Drinking thickened liquids can help prevent choking and stop fluid from entering the lungs Fluid entering the lung can result in aspiration pneumonia, which can cause death

Tips for Thick It

Slowly add Thick It Wait two minutes before adding more than the recommended amount Plan ahead