Evaluation of the protocol for thirst management using ice popsicles in the immediate postoperative period: A pilot study in southern Brazilian hospital

Abstract

Although a protocol for immediate postoperative thirst management has been applied clinically in a discrete way, most surgical and nursing teams remain neglected, unlike other complications in the postoperative period. This pilot study aimed to demonstrate if the ice popsicles promote thirst satiety and subsequently investigate the mechanism involved in this process. Twenty-fi ve volunteers in the immediate postoperative period were recruited to participate in this study conducted in a tertiary medical center in southern Brazil. In this protocol, ice popsicles decreased the intensity and discomfort of thirst. Relevantly, all patients (100%) demonstrated satiety after ice popsicles administrated in the immediate postoperative period. Altogether, ice popsicles constitute a promising, innovative, and simple strategy for the management of thirst, mainly after surgery, adding to patient comfort and the security of the health team that manages it.