A clinical internal audit of adherence to a guideline for preventing dehydration after ileostomy formation

Background: Dehydration is a common cause of readmission after ileostomy formation and increases morbidity and healthcare utilisation. Aim: To evaluate adherence to a clinical guideline for preventing dehydration in patients with a newly formed ileostomy to describe post-discharge patterns related to dehydration. Method: A prospective internal audit of patients undergoing ileostomy formation at the terminal ileum (January–July 2024) was conducted, with descriptive analysis of discharge criteria fulfilment, readmissions, outpatient intravenous (IV) fluid therapy, and post-discharge contacts. Findings: Of 46 patients, 50% met all discharge criteria. Most dehydration-related readmissions and outpatient IV fluid treatments occurred among patients who did not meet discharge criteria. While the need for IV fluid therapy persisted, a greater proportion of patients were managed in the outpatient day clinic rather than through hospital readmission. Conclusion: Patient recognition of early dehydration symptoms and discharge criteria may together facilitate timely intervention and reduce hospital readmission.