Malnutrition and dehydration after stroke.

By identifying malnutrition and dehydration in patients who have had a stroke, nurses can intervene to prevent significant complications developing and so improve patient outcomes. Poor intake of fluid and food may result from difficulties in swallowing, as well as other physical and functional problems that occur as a result of a stroke. The aim of this article is to encourage nurses to identify the frequency and causes of malnutrition and dehydration, to consider the complications this can cause and to be aware of optimum feeding strategies for stroke patients.