Executive Summary: Quality Improvement Initiative Implementing Fixed Water Dispensers in an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital

The current hydration system using water pitchers was outdated and inefficient, leading to potential risks of contamination, inconsistent hydration, and increased staff workload in this inpatient psychiatric facility. Psychiatric patients may struggle to access adequate hydration due to cognitive or behavioral limitations. Addressing this gap is essential for improving patient care, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring consistent access to clean water. This DNP scholarly project was an evaluation of an interprofessional team-based quality initiative to replace traditional water pitchers with fixed water dispensers in an acute inpatient psychiatric facility. The primary practice-focused question was: Will an interprofessional team reach consensus on a practical plan to replace drinking water pitchers with fixed water dispensers in a mental health facility? The evidence was obtained through a systematic literature search of peer-reviewed articles, clinical guidelines, and relevant hydration studies. Analytical strategies included thematic analysis from staff and patient surveys, and comparative analysis of hydration levels pre- and post-implementation. The interprofessional team, including a dietary, physician, nursing manager, and financial director, reached a consensus on implementing fixed water dispensers. Implementation on pilot units showed a significant improvement in patient hydration (from 40% pre-implementation to 80% post-implementation feeling adequately hydrated). Staff satisfaction increased due to the reduced time spent refilling water pitchers, with 75% reporting improved workflow. These findings support fixed water dispensers as a viable solution to improving hydration and operational efficiency in psychiatric settings with nursing involvement in continuous improvement, resulting in social change and the attention of diversity, equity, and inclusion.