What is the most accurate indicator of fluid loss or gain in acutely ill patients?
Daily weight.
Intake and output.
Serum osmolality.
Urine specific gravity.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A. Daily weight.

According to MDCalc, daily weight is the most accurate indicator of fluid loss or gain in acutely ill patients, as it reflects changes in total body water.
A weight change of 1 kg corresponds to a fluid change of approximately 1 L.
Choice B is wrong because intake and output measurements can be inaccurate or incomplete, and do not account for insensible fluid losses.
Choice C is wrong because serum osmolality reflects the concentration of solutes in the blood, not the volume of fluid.
Choice D is wrong because urine specific gravity reflects the concentration of solutes in the urine, not the volume of fluid.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Oliguria is the term for a urine output less than 400 mL per day. This can indicate dehydration, kidney failure, urinary obstruction, or other conditions that affect urine production.
Choice A is wrong because anuria is the term for a urine output less than 100 mL per day.
This is a more severe form of oliguria and can indicate complete kidney failure or urinary obstruction.
Choice C is wrong because polyuria is the term for a urine output more than 3000 mL per day.
This can indicate diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, diuretic use, or excessive fluid intake.
Choice D is wrong because dysuria is the term for painful or difficult urination.
This can indicate urinary tract infection, kidney stones, bladder inflammation, or other conditions that affect the urinary tract.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation

These are all signs and symptoms of hypokalemia, which is a condition where the blood potassium level is too low. This can affect the function of the muscles, nerves, and heart. Therefore, the nurse would expect to find these signs and symptoms in a client with dehydration and hypokalemia.
Choice C is wrong because hyperreflexia is not a sign or symptom of hypokalemia.
Hyperreflexia is a condition where the reflexes are exaggerated or overactive.
This can be caused by conditions such as spinal cord injury, stroke, or electrolyte imbalances such as hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia.
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