Unfiltered Story #100045

I am working on a hospital ward where I have a patient who is on a 1.5L Fluid restriction due to end stage kidney failure. He has gained 5kg this week and is deteriorating. The patient and his daughter are non-compliant with his restrictions, often bringing in extra cordial, jelly etc. The following conversation happens between the daughter and me:

Me: It is important that (patient) only drinks what we provide to ensure an accurate fluid balance. If he drinks something, please let us know so we can document it to ensure he doesn’t go over his limit.

Pts daughter: But I’m only giving him cups of ice and some cordial, which shouldn’t affect him too much?

I had to walk out, and went to get the doctor to talk to them because I don’t think I would be able to explain it to them professionally enough that ice is in fact, water!