In resident care documentation, what does I&O help monitor?

• A. Hydration status
• B. Medication schedules
• C. Fluid balance
• D. Temperature regulation

Answer: (C)

I&O focuses on fluid balance, the ongoing equation of what a resident takes in versus what they lose. By recording all intake—drinks, soups, IV fluids, tube feedings—and all output—urine, stool, vomiting, wound drainage, and measurable sweat—you can track whether fluids are being gained, lost, or kept in balance over time. This helps identify dehydration, fluid overload, or imbalances in electrolytes and kidney function, and it guides care decisions about hydration needs or adjustments to fluids and diuretics. Hydration status is related, but I&O’s core purpose is to monitor the balance of input and output. Medication schedules and temperature regulation are tracked separately and aren’t what I&O directly measures.