To keep patients safe during surgery, they must not eat any solid food for at least six hours before the operation. However, research now shows that allowing patients to sip water can help them feel more comfortable and enhance their experience in hospital.

New drinking bottles – with distinctive MTW Hospitals Charity branding – allow patients to safely sip a small amount of water every hour until their procedure.

The reusable bottles are being used by patients having planned (non-emergency) surgery from Wednesday 8 April after being funded by the charity.

Previously, ‘nil by mouth’ guidance allowed patients to drink water up until two hours before their procedure, but for some patients this lasted much longer due to unpredictable timings of going into theatre.

Long periods of time without a drink are uncomfortable for patients and cause dehydration. The new bottles aim to make patients more comfortable before their procedure, and also provide benefits afterwards.

Consultant Anaesthetist, Dr James Wight, who led the project, said: “By encouraging patients to drink before theatre we ensure they stay hydrated, reducing headaches, nausea and anxiety.

Small changes like this can make a huge difference to how comfortable a patient feels before and after their surgery, so it’s been a really positive change.”

The trust’s Head of Charity and Fundraising, Claire Ashby, said: “We’re delighted to see the new water bottles being used for our patients. Projects like this are not just improving clinical outcomes; they’re ensuring our patients feel cared for and supported throughout their time with us.”