The nurse is evaluating the fluid balance for a client admitted for hypovolemia associated with multiple draining wounds. Which of the following assessments is the most accurate to evaluate volume status in this client?
A)Skin turgor
B)Daily weight
C)Presence of edema
D)Hourly urine output

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Daily weight is the most easily obtained and accurate means of assessing volume status. Skin turgor varies considerably with age. Considerable excess fluid volume may be present before fluid moves into the interstitial space and causes edema. Hourly urine outputs do not take account of fluid intake or of fluid loss through insensible loss, sweating, or loss from the gastrointestinal tract or wounds.

The Nurse Is Evaluating the Fluid Balance for a Client