Challenging a Sacred Cow: Implementing Clear Liquids During Labor

Background: Traditionally, patients in labor could not have anything to eat or drink (nothing by mouth [NPO]) due to long-standing beliefs, often labeled "sacred cows." However, recent research indicated that clear liquids during labor can be safe and beneficial. Methods: Prior to implementing this project, the team collected information from 20 low-risk laboring mothers regarding their satisfaction level and their perception of the overall childbirth experience. Clear liquids were permitted for low-risk mothers and data were collected from the same population to evaluate the impact on their labor experience. The primary goal of this project was to challenge the “sacred cow” of holding laboring mothers NPO and improve the patient experience. A second goal was to introduce evidence-based practices to influence the culture and protocols in the nursing unit and eliminate this particular “sacred cow.” Results: Pre-intervention data demonstrated that patients in labor were not satisfied with having nothing to eat or drink before the delivery of their baby, with an average satisfaction level of 1.4 (out of a maximum of five). After implementing clear liquids for low-risk laboring mothers prior to the delivery, the patient satisfaction level was 4.25 (out of a maximum of five). Discussion: The implementation of clear liquids during labor for low-risk women improved patient satisfaction and experience. This project challenged outdated practices and highlighted the importance of basing obstetrical care on evidence-based decision-making. Implications for Future Work: Future projects to improve patient experience further will investigate allowing laboring women to walk outside of their hospital room.