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Abstract

Background: Proper hydration is essential for maintaining overall health and optimal physical and mental function. However, surgical residents often work long, demanding hours that limit their opportunities to drink enough fluids. This can lead to dehydration, which affects concentration, decision-making, and physical endurance—factors critical for safe and effective patient care. In India, where resident duty hours are often longer than international standards, the risk of dehydration is even higher. This study explores the hydration habits of surgical residents at a tertiary care hospital in South India, evaluating how their fluid intake compares to World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations and identifying common barriers to staying hydrated.
Methods: We conducted a six-month cross-sectional study using a structured questionnaire among 150 surgical residents. The survey assessed how often and how much water they drank, their awareness of WHO hydration guidelines, factors that influenced their fluid intake, and any dehydration symptoms they experienced. Based on their reported daily intake, residents were grouped into four hydration categories: poorly, moderately, adequately, and well-hydrated, according to WHO standards.
Results: Among the 150 respondents, 65% consumed less water than the WHO guidelines suggest. Around 70% reported symptoms of dehydration, including fatigue (55%), headaches (40%), and trouble concentrating (35%). The main reasons for poor hydration were heavy workloads (80%), lack of time for breaks (70%), and limited access to drinking water (50%). There was a statistically significant link between lower fluid intake and decreased performance at work (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Surgical residents in South India commonly face hydration challenges that can negatively impact their health and work efficiency. Addressing this issue requires institutional changes, such as improving access to water, scheduling hydration breaks, and promoting awareness about the importance of hydration in clinical settings. These measures are vital for protecting the well-being of resident doctors and ensuring high standards of patient care