Chart Smart

If your patient has excessive GI fluid loss, make sure you document the following information:

• vital signs
• intake and output
• daily weight
• presence and characteristics of vomitus, diarrhea, and/or GI fluid drainage
• skin turgor
• correct placement of GI tube, if present, plus care related to the tube
• interventions used to decrease GI fluid loss
• IV or oral fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy and the patient's response.