Vätskeregistrering
Vätskeregistrering, often referred to as fluid balance monitoring, is a medical practice of carefully tracking the amount of fluids a patient consumes and excretes. This process is crucial for assessing and managing a patient's hydration status, kidney function, and overall physiological balance. The intake portion typically includes all beverages, intravenous fluids, and even water content in solid foods if a detailed assessment is required. Output measurement involves monitoring urine output, fluid lost through vomiting or diarrhea, perspiration, and any drainage from surgical sites or drains. By comparing intake and output, healthcare professionals can determine if a patient is retaining fluid, becoming dehydrated, or maintaining a stable balance. Deviations from expected fluid balance can indicate underlying medical conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, or severe infections, and can also be a side effect of certain medications. Accurate vätskeregistrering allows for timely interventions, such as adjusting fluid administration, administering diuretics, or addressing the root cause of any imbalance, thereby contributing significantly to patient recovery and well-being.