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How do we monitor fluid balance? Knowing the signs and symptoms of Fluid Imbalance in the body is a crucial aspect of hospital care and assessment. It is assessed in 3 ways: physical assessment, blood results and fluid balance charts.
Fluid balance is an essential tool in determining hydration status. Recording intake and output tends to be one of the key activities undertaken at the bedside and is used in conjunction with the recording of vital signs and certain laboratory reports to set required fluid intake levels.
• Fluid balance charts must be completed 1-2 hourly, cumulative balance and running totals updated at this time. • Special instructions, such as fluid restrictions, should be written in the allocated box (Documented in patient notes and on paper fluid balance chart if in use).
The amount of fluid going into your body and out of your body can be monitored using a fluid balance chart. The chart has two sides. The input side (what goes into your body) and the output side (what goes out of your body).
Guidelines for fluid balance and supporting optimal hydration in adults during hospital stay. Studies have shown that dehydration is associated with poor clinical outcomes, including: • constipation and subsequent medication. • confusion (with risks of falls and fractures) • headaches.
Fluid balance monitoring consists of recording your intake and output of fluid, in order to accurately measure the balance. Patient and carers / relatives who are willing, are encouraged to support and assist in the fluid balance record. You will be made aware of your individual needs for fluid.
The total (oral, IV drugs and prescribed fluids) volume prescribed in healthy adults (without excess fluid losses) should be of the order of 30 ml/kg/day up to a maximum of 2.5L. Consider prescribing less fluid (e.g. 20-25 ml/kg/day) for patients who are older,
