How Do Nurses Monitor Fluid and Electrolyte Balance?
Nurses monitor fluid and electrolyte balance through various methods:
Intake and Output (I&O) Monitoring: Tracking the patient's fluid intake and output to identify imbalances. Laboratory Tests: Regularly checking blood and urine samples for electrolyte levels and other markers. Physical Assessments: Observing signs such as skin turgor, mucous membranes, and edema. Vital Signs: Monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate for changes that may indicate an imbalance.