How to Measure Intake & Output Procedures

Input and output, more commonly referred to as I&O in the medical field, is the measure of a patient's intake of food and fluids and the release of fluids and solids from the body. Some medical conditions require that a patient's input and output be measured to ensure she is eating properly. I&O can also help a doctor diagnose other ailments. If intake and output procedures are required to be monitored, notes must be made in the patient's chart or given to the physician to provide an accurate measurement.

Things You'll Need

• Patient's medical chart or notepad
• Device for measuring output (urinal, bedpan, measuring cup)

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Instructions

• 1

  Chart the intake of fluids and foods in the patient's medical chart or on a notepad for the physician. Measure food portions the patient is offered at meals and then note how much food and fluid the patient consumed.

• 2

  Measure output by first helping the patient use the restroom. If the patient is ambulatory, a portable commode will make measuring output most accurate. If the patient is not able to use the facilities on his own, a urinal or bedpan may be used. If these devices are used, be sure to transfer the output into a measuring container to get an accurate measurement. Some patients may have urinary catheters. When this is the case, output is measured when the catheter is emptied throughout the day.

• 3

  Note the date, time and output measurement each time the patient uses the restroom to ensure the physician is getting an accurate idea of the patient's I&O schedule.