12.7.3: Procedure- Measuring Intake
To maintain adequate health, we need to take in a certain amount of fluid per day. Depending on a patient’s condition, they may either be encouraged to drink fluids or limit their fluid intake. Fluid that is taken in is called intake. Fluids are usually measured using milliliters (mL). One cup of liquid is 8 ounces or 240 mL.
The amount of food that is eaten can also be measured. This can be done by weighing the food prior to serving and subtracting the amount left to get the total intake. Food intake can also be measured by determining percentage eaten. If all the meal is consumed, the intake is 100%. If none of the meal is consumed, the intake is 0%. A quarter of the meal consumed would be 25% and half the meal consumed would be 50%. The agency will specify the unit of measurement to be used.
- Explain to the patient the importance of recording their intake. Throughout your shift, ask the patient what and how much they have had to eat or drink.
- During food preparation, measure the amount of food or liquid that is served. Use standard measuring cups and spoons to properly measure intake. Record this in the appropriate place.
- Once the patient has finished eating or drinking, subtract the amount they have consumed from the amount you served. Record this number as their input. Input for fluid should be recorded as milliliters (mL).
- Record the weight or percentage of food consumed in the appropriate place.
- Document all intake. The agency may provide Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides with a specific intake and output (I & O) sheet. They should report any observations or changes in condition or behavior.