What types of intake should be documented?
Liquids taken orally, by enteral feedings, and parenterally.
What equipment is necessary for I&O measurement?
Graduated measuring containers, bedpans, urinals, and clean gloves.
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Documentation Accuracy

What types of intake should be documented?

Liquids taken orally, by enteral feedings, and parenterally.

Equipment for I&O Measurement

What equipment is necessary for I&O measurement?

Graduated measuring containers, bedpans, urinals, and clean gloves.

Clinical Assessment Techniques

What is the normal range for urine specific gravity?

1.010–1.030.

Documentation Accuracy

What types of output should be documented?

Urine, diarrhea, vomitus, gastric suction, and drainage from surgical tubes.

Equipment for I&O Measurement

How should urine drainage be measured?

Using a urine 'hat' that fits over the toilet seat and then measuring with a graduated container.

Documentation Accuracy

Why is accuracy in I&O documentation critical?

Health care providers rely on this information for prescribing medications and IV fluids.

Delegation of I&O Tasks

What tasks related to I&O cannot be delegated to assistive personnel (AP)?

Assessing I&O totals, comparing 24-hour totals, and monitoring/documenting IV therapy and drainage.

Documentation Accuracy

What should be done to maintain accuracy in documenting intake?

Document intake as soon as it is measured.

Fluid Intake Calculation

What is the average fluid intake for adults?

2200–2700 mL.

Monitoring Intake and Output (I&O)

When should I&O be monitored more closely?

For patients with fever, edema, receiving diuretic therapy, or on restricted IV fluids.

Delegation of I&O Tasks

What should APs report regarding I&O?

Changes in the patient’s condition, such as alterations in intake or changes in output characteristics.

Patient and Family Involvement

What should patients and family caregivers be instructed to monitor?

Incontinence, vomiting, and excessive perspiration.

Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

What is the purpose of measuring and documenting intake and output (I&O)?

It is part of the assessment database for fluid and electrolyte balance and is critical for accurate medication and IV fluid prescriptions.

Monitoring Intake and Output (I&O)

What should be done at the end of each shift regarding I&O?

Total and evaluate the patient’s I&O.

Interprofessional Collaboration

Who may assist in ensuring accuracy in I&O collection?

Dietary assistants or a dietitian.

Reporting and Communication of Changes

What should be done if urine output is less than 30 mL/h?

Report it to the health care provider.

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