Centre for Perioperative Care: Sip Til Send

Summary

Sip Til Send is a global initiative allowing patients to sip small amounts of water while waiting for surgery, keeping them hydrated and more comfortable. Traditionally, patients were left without fluids for hours, leading to dehydration, nausea, and headaches.

The new approach lets patients sip water, black tea, black coffee, or squash until they are sent for by the surgical team. Research shows this doesn’t increase risks and may even reduce the need for IV fluids.

This applies to all patients unless a senior clinician advises otherwise.