Fluid balance

Question 1

what is fluid balance

Answer 1

Too little or too much water in the
body can be harmful; the body
strives to
maintain……Homeostasis

Question 2

Why do we need water in the body

Answer 2

Removes wastes through sweat and urine
* Necessary to maintain normal temp
* Average adult requires 2000 – 2500
mls/day of fluids for normal fluid
balance but this can look different for
individuals with health conditions such
as CHF or kidney disease
* Best source of fluid is water

Question 3

What is edema

Answer 3

Tissues swollen with water
* Fluid intake > output
* May indicate kidney or heart
disease

Question 4

what is dehydration

Answer 4

• Not enough water in the
  body tissues
• Causes:
• Any loss of fluids from
  the body, greater
  than what is taken in
  (intake < output)

Question 5

what is fluid restrictions

Answer 5

• Amount of fluid will be ordered – usually per 24 hours
• Intake and output need to monitored and recorded
• Ensure client and visitors are aware of this
• Usually ordered for clients with certain diseases e.g.
  renal failure, CHF, liver failure