Abstract
Carbohydrate loading is an important component of enhanced recovery pathways. Some practitioners argue that patients' low acceptance for drinking such solutions could hamper the implementation of a full protocol. The aim of this study was to assess patients' actual acceptance of drinking carbohydrate solutions. Thirty patients scheduled to undergo digestive surgery participated in a survey which asked them to evaluate the taste of a carbohydrate loading drink mix (Clinutren® Preload®). They were asked whether they took all the solution, experienced nausea or vomiting, and whether they would be willing to take the solution again. Twenty two patients (73%) took all the solution, 27 (90%) judged the solution easy or quite easy to drink, 25 (83%) found the taste good or quite good, and 23 experienced (76%) no nausea. Finally 16 patients (54%) responded that they would be willing to take it again if indicated. We concluded that patient-related factors were not sufficient to hamper the implementation of carbohydrate loading before major surgery. The lack of implementation is probably related more to the attitude of the practitioner.
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