I & O

[SpssSpss]

Hey all!

Is there some kind of chart that will help me gauge what percentage of food my patient has eaten in order to more accurately track intake? I say one number, the CNA says another, and the RN another! Any input would be greatly appreciated!

[RN403, BSN, RN]

I am not sure that there is a set chart as portion sizes will vary from facility to facility. I would ask your assigned RN how she calculates how much a patient has eaten. Truly, however, it is just an estimate based on what you see.

When it comes to intake in regards to what they are drinking, you can find charts. Either here on AN or on Google. The charts will tell you approximately how many ccs are in a cup of juice, water, etc. You also might take a look at how many ccs are in these containers at your facility. You will over time become familiar with those numbers and will be able to accurately estimate your patient's intake.

[SpssSpss]

Thank you RN403! :)

[non_nahs]

Our rooms have a little chart in them for what everything equals. If you don't have access to that I would discuss it with the RN.

[studentnursemon86]

One ounce = 30mL. You really just need to do math.

Every facility should tell you (either in ounces, mL, or both) how much fluid is in their cups and glasses. Bottled drinks should have it written on them.

If that isn't the case, I would speak to your supervisor and try to see if they can fix that issue.

[rob4546, ADN, BSN, MSN]

Fluids are easy, solids are a little more difficult. When I had to do this I looked at the plate and saw it like a clock and estimated percentages. Half the plate empty, 50%... etc... It really is a estimated guess on the solids.

[NurseGirl525, ASN, RN]

You estimated the percentages on solids. 25-50-75-100%. Fluids you measure in mL. You may have to convert oz to mL but it's not hard.

[SpssSpss]

It's really just the food I'm having trouble with. I want to be as accurate as possible, but when everyone has their own interpretation of what was consumed I start to wonder why we even track it. Non_nahs, I'll be sure to ask around. Thank you, everyone!

[VANurse2010]

It's really just the food I'm having trouble with. I want to be as accurate as possible, but when everyone has their own interpretation of what was consumed I start to wonder why we even track it. Non_nahs, I'll be sure to ask around. Thank you, everyone!

I applaud your quest for accuracy, but don't twist yourself too much over this. Meal percentages are primarily used for nutrition screenings and whether a supplement should be added. They are not going to dramatically alter the medical plan of care because you chart 25% instead of 50% or whatever.

[SpssSpss]

Fantastic! Thank you so much!