RECORDING OF INTAKE AND OUTPUT

REQUIREMENTS #

1. A trolley containing the following:
   1. Top shelf: Drinking cup (To measure fluid input)
   2. Bottom Shelf
      1. Urinal or bedpan
      2. Measuring jug (To measure output)
   3. Fluid chart (manual/ electronic)

STEPS #

1. Establish rapport (Refer to steps)
2. Explain the importance of keeping the fluid balance chart to patient and relatives
3. Obtain fluid intake and output chart (manually or electronically) and confirm with patient’s identity
4. Determine the types of fluid intake or output
5. Observe amount of fluids given to patient
6. Record the amount of oral and intravenous fluids prescribed at the intake column indicating the date and time
7. Add together the values for oral and parenteral fluids
8. Assist patient to void into a bedpan or urinal if possible, empty content into the measuring jug and note the volume OR If there is urine in a urine bag, empty content into the measuring jug and note the volume
9. Record other forms of output such as watery stools, vomitus at the output column indicating date, time and the amount
10. Record all measurements in milliliters
11. Add together all the values obtained for outputs
12. Total the intake and output at the end of every 24 hours
13. Find out amount of fluid retained by subtracting the values of fluid output from the intake
14. Perform hand hygiene
15. Inform the nurse in charge/doctor immediately if amount put out is greater than the amount taken in or when there is abnormally low output
16. Record findings in the appropriate recording software and observation chart
17. Dispose off used items and decontaminate trolley (manual or electronic)