Question

The RN is figuring the intake and output at the end of the shift. The nurse knows that usually the amount of urine excreted from the body every 24 hours is approximately equal to the amount of fluid:

1) consumed in oral foods
2) contained in foods
3) resulting from the metabolism of foods
4) consumed as solid and liquid food

Answer 1

The average urine output in a day is roughly equal to the total fluid intake from liquids and foods, which averages around 2500 mL. The kidneys regulate this balance by conserving or expelling water as necessary. Urine output ranges from 600 mL to 2500 mL per day.

Step-by-step explanation:

The amount of urine excreted by the body in 24 hours is approximately equal to the amount of fluid consumed as both liquids and foods combined. On average, adults intake about 2500 mL of aqueous fluids daily, which includes both beverages and the moisture content of foods. Most of this intake is through the digestive tract, but around 230 mL is produced through metabolic processes. The kidneys play a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, regulating water levels through urine concentration or dilution mechanisms. They are capable of conserving water during dehydration or expelling excess water as needed. Not all water in the body is output through urine; some is lost via insensible means such as evaporation from the skin and respiration. However, urine production typically ranges between 600 mL to 2500 mL per day, reflecting the volume of fluids taken in.