Recording fluid intake and output is an important clinical care process that helps the medical responder determine the progress of the disease and the effects of the treatment. Recording of intake and output helps to ensure that the casualty has a proper intake of fluid. Recording of output helps to determine whether there is an adequate output of urine and normal defecation. Correct recording of fluid balance helps ensure safe and effective nursing care to identify abnormalities in casualty conditions, proper resuscitation response, and fluid maintenance requirements over time. Critical casualties will typically have a Foley catheter (in-dwelling catheter,[IDC]) placed and may be getting hourly fluids or blood, which need to be monitored on a more frequent basis. Input and output is typically recorded in cubic centimeters (cc) or milliliters (mL). If trying to estimate input or output without measuring tools, think of common items to help estimate fluid volumes. For example, a standard soda can contains about 350 cc.
Intake
Output
Frequency
Equipment