Standard 8, Fluids and Nutrition, covers the principles of good nutrition, hydration and food safety, and how to support individuals to access food and fluids in line with their plan of care. It's one of the 15 mandatory Care Certificate standards for adult social care and healthcare support staff.

Common signs of dehydration in adults include thirst, a dry mouth, dark urine, tiredness, dizziness and headaches. In older or vulnerable people, symptoms can be less obvious, so care staff should monitor fluid intake closely and encourage regular drinking throughout the day.

The NHS Eatwell Guide recommends around 6 to 8 glasses of fluid a day for most adults, roughly 1.5 to 2 litres. Individual needs vary with health, mobility and medication, so fluid intake should always be checked against each person's care plan.

Signs of poor nutrition include unplanned weight loss, loose-fitting clothing, low energy, poor wound healing and reduced appetite. Care staff should report any concerns promptly, as early identification helps prevent malnutrition and supports timely referral for a nutritional assessment.

CQC doesn't approve individual courses, but Regulation 14 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 requires providers to meet people's nutritional and hydration needs. This course supports that requirement and aligns with Care Certificate Standard 8 and Skills for Care guidance.

Yes. The course covers nutrition and hydration support across care settings, including domiciliary care, where staff often support meal preparation, dietary requirements and fluid intake alone, without the immediate support of a wider care team.