Final answer:
A CNA charts a resident's intake and output on a flow sheet, which is essential for monitoring a patient's fluid balance and supporting care decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) needs to chart a resident's intake and output on a flow sheet. In a healthcare setting, precise documentation of a patient's fluid intake and output is crucial for monitoring their fluid balance and overall health. Intake includes not just what is consumed orally, such as drinks and liquid foods, but also intravenous fluids if applicable. Output generally refers to urine, but can also include vomit, diarrhea, and other bodily fluids that are lost. Tracking these accurately helps in preventing complications such as dehydration or fluid overload, which could harm the patient. A CNA must be diligent and exact when charting this information, as it is often used by nurses and doctors to make critical care decisions.