Which practice accurately describes measuring intake and output?

• A. Record intake but not output.
• B. Record all fluids consumed and expelled, use calibrated containers, measure accurately, estimate when necessary, and monitor for discrepancies.
• C. Only record fluid intake; ignore outputs.
• D. Estimate all values without measurement.

Answer: (B)

Measuring intake and output centers on tracking fluid balance. Record every fluid the patient takes in and every fluid that leaves the body. Use calibrated containers to measure accurately, so you have precise volumes for both intake and output. Estimate only when measurement isn’t possible, and then monitor for discrepancies between intake and output, as well as weight changes, which can indicate a fluid imbalance or measurement error. This approach supports understanding hydration status, kidney function, and response to therapies like IV fluids or diuretics. Recording only intake misses the full picture; ignoring outputs prevents assessing balance; estimating all values without measurement yields unreliable data.