A client remains on strict measurement of intake and output (1&O) on the second postoperative day. During breakfast, the client consumed 4 ounces of a protein shake, a cup of black coffee, and 6 ounces of apple juice. How many mL should the nurse document in the client’s record? (Enter numerical value only.)
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
To calculate the fluid intake, we need to convert the amounts of each fluid consumed into milliliters (mL). In this case, the client consumed the following:
- 4 ounces of protein shake
- 1 cup (8 ounces) of black coffee
- 6 ounces of apple juice
Each fluid measurement in ounces needs to be converted into milliliters. The conversion factor is 1 ounce = 30 mL.
Let’s calculate:
- 4 ounces of protein shake
4 oz×30 mL/oz=120 mL4 \, \text{oz} \times 30 \, \text{mL/oz} = 120 \, \text{mL}4oz×30mL/oz=120mL - 1 cup of black coffee (8 ounces)
8 oz×30 mL/oz=240 mL8 \, \text{oz} \times 30 \, \text{mL/oz} = 240 \, \text{mL}8oz×30mL/oz=240mL - 6 ounces of apple juice
6 oz×30 mL/oz=180 mL6 \, \text{oz} \times 30 \, \text{mL/oz} = 180 \, \text{mL}6oz×30mL/oz=180mL
Now, add the total fluid intake: 120 mL+240 mL+180 mL=540 mL120 \, \text{mL} + 240 \, \text{mL} + 180 \, \text{mL} = 540 \, \text{mL}120mL+240mL+180mL=540mL
Therefore, the total intake is 540 mL.
Explanation:
The nurse must accurately track intake and output (I&O) to monitor the client’s fluid balance, which is critical for evaluating hydration, kidney function, and the effects of surgery on the body. Fluid intake is measured in milliliters to standardize the data. Since fluid amounts are often recorded in ounces in everyday life, converting these values to milliliters ensures consistency in medical records.
In this case, the nurse recorded the client’s intake, which consisted of a protein shake, coffee, and apple juice. By using the conversion of 1 ounce = 30 mL, the nurse calculated the total intake in milliliters. Accurately documenting I&O helps assess whether the client is meeting fluid requirements, which is especially important postoperatively to avoid complications such as dehydration or fluid overload. Maintaining balance between intake and output is essential to support proper recovery and overall health.