Question

Daily weights are being recorded for the patient. His urine output has been less than his intravenous and oral intake. His weight yesterday was 97.5 kg. This morning it is 99 kg. The nurse understands that this corresponds to a(n):

a. fluid retention of 1.5 liters.
b. fluid loss of 1.5 liters.
c. equal intake and output due to insensible losses.
d. fluid loss of 0.5 liters.

Answer 1

The patient's weight increase from 97.5 kg to 99 kg indicates a fluid retention of approximately 1.5 liters.

Step-by-step explanation:

The increase in patient weight from 97.5 kg to 99 kg, in the context of fluid intake and output, corresponds to a fluid retention. Since 1 kg of body weight is roughly equivalent to 1 liter of fluid, the weight gain of 1.5 kg suggests a fluid retention of approximately 1.5 liters.