Assessing Fluid Balance Flashcards
what should be assessed for fluid balance?
thirst, mucous membranes, turgor, tearing, pulse, BP, edema, weight, intake/ouput, urine concentration, neuromuscular signs
why does dry mouth occur?
could be due to fluid volume deficit or might be result of mouth breathing
in mouth breathing, what areas will remain moist?
where the cheeks and the gums meet
in a fluid volume deficit, will the cheeks/gums be be most or dry?
dry
what happens to the skin when you have a fluid volume deficit?
the skin flattens more slowly after a pinch is released
who is more likely to show signs of decreased skin elasticity?
older clients or those with recent weight loss
what is one of the most reliable indicators of fluid volume in infants?
crying/tearing
what is generally the earliest sign of decreased vascular volume?
tachycardia
what two positions should BP be taken in when suspecting fluid imbalance?
sitting an standing
when does edema become apparent?
does not become apparent until the interstitial fluid has increased by at least 2.5 litres
where should be checked for edema?
generalized, localized and dependent
is body weighing more accurate than intake an output measurements?
yes
when should clients be weighed?
in the morning, before breakfast but after urinating
what is the normal output in an adult?
1000-2000 mL/day, or 40-80 mL/hour
what does urine concentration measure?
the ability of the kidneys to concentrate urine
