Question

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

1) fluid retention of 1.5 liters.
2) fluid loss of 1.5 liters.
3) equal intake and output due to insensible losses.
4) fluid loss of 0.5 liters.

Answer 1

The patient's increase in weight from 97.5 kg to 99 kg, with less urine output than fluid intake, indicates fluid retention of approximately 1.5 liters.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient shows an increase in weight from 97.5 kg to 99 kg, while having a urine output that has been less than the intravenous and oral intake, it usually indicates fluid retention.

Considering that 1 kg of body weight is roughly equivalent to 1 liter of fluid, the increase of 1.5 kg corresponds to a fluid retention of approximately 1.5 liters. This is an important clinical finding as it implies that there is a discrepancy between fluid intake and output, potentially resulting from inadequate kidney function or other factors affecting fluid balance.