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4.19 Measuring Intake and Output
Definition: The measurement and recording of all fluid intake and output during 24
hours period which provides important data about the client’s fluids and electrolyte
balance.
Purpose
Initiated to monitor the client's fluid status over 24 hours
Oral Intake
Measure all oral fluids in accord with agency policy (e.g., cup = 150 ml, glass = 240 ml).
Record time and amount of all fluid intake in the designated space on bedside form (oral,
tube feedings, IV fluids).
Transfer 8-hour total fluid intake from bedside I&O record to graphic sheet or 24-hour
I&O record on the client's chart.
Record all forms of intake, except blood and blood products, in the appropriate column of
the 24-hour record.
Complete 24-hour intake record by adding all 8-hour totals.
Output
Don non-sterile gloves.
Empty urinal, bedpan, or indwelling catheter drainage bag into graduated container or
commode “hat.”
Remove gloves, and wash hands.
Record time and amount of output (urine, drainage from the nasogastric tube, drainage
tube) on bedside I&O record.
Transfer 8-hour output totals to graphic sheets or 24-hour I&O records on the client's
chart.
Complete 24-hour output record by adding all 8-hour totals.

Precaution
 Elicit client and family member input when selecting household items to be used for
intake measurement.
 Provide containers for measuring output; adapt the urinary container to home facilities,
and include teaching relative to proper washing and storage.
 Teach the handwashing technique.
 Provide written instructions on what is to be measured.
 Provide sufficient in and out forms to last between the nurse’s visits.
 Identify the parameters for evaluating a discrepancy between the intake and output and
for notifying the nurse or health care practitioner.

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