[Dysphagia] Clear fluids

[eripley at yahoo.com (Irene Campbell-Taylor)]

Medically speaking, clear fluids are those that leave minimal residue in the GI tract.  That?s why they?re ordered before and after certain surgeries etc. There is, however, disagreement among anesthesiologists as to what, exactly, constitutes ?clear liquids.? A clear liquid diet is not adequate in calories and nutrients. It should not be used for more than five days unless high-protein gelatin or other low-residue supplements are added. A good rule of thumb for a clear liquid  is anything you can see through. For example, apple juice is a clear liquid; milk is not.
  One would have to aspirate an great deal of sugar/lactose containing material before it would make the slightest difference.  Again, one?s own saliva is the greatest hazard.
What?s wrong with seeing how the patient manages with water?  If they can drink water, they can drink anything. 

Dr I Campbell-Taylor
Clinical Neuroscientist
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