Which parameter is used to monitor a patient’s fluid status during IV therapy?

• A. Intake and output
• B. Hair color
• C. Eye color
• D. Blood type

Answer: (A)

Tracking intake and output is the key way to monitor a patient’s fluid status during IV therapy. By recording all fluids the patient receives (including IV fluids, oral intake, and any fluids given with medications) and all outputs (urine, vomit, wound drainage, diarrhea, etc.), you get a clear picture of the body's overall fluid balance. This helps you detect either fluid overload (too much fluid relative to output) or dehydration (insufficient fluid intake relative to losses) and lets you adjust the IV rate, type, or additional treatments accordingly. Hair color, eye color, and blood type don’t reflect current hydration or fluid balance, so they aren’t useful for monitoring fluid status.