NHSE Safety Alert: Risk of Death from Swallowing Fluid/food Thickening Powder

April 2015 – Raises awareness of the need for proper storage and management of thickening powder treating people with dysphagia (swallowing problems).

Thickening powder is added to foods and liquids to adjust their consistency and texture for safe swallowing. This enables patients to receive the required nutrition and hydration.

The National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS) database has identified patient safety incidents where the powder has not been stored out of reach. This has led to accidental swallowing.

www.england.nhs.uk/2015/02/06/psa-fluidfood-thickening-powder/