Join us for an informative episode where we delve deep into the roles and responsibilities of nurses in managing patient nutrition and fluid balance. We start by exploring the fundamental elements of a nutritional assessment and the calculation of intake, understanding food allergies, intolerances, and preferences, and the essentials of crafting a balanced diet. Learn about the different types of patient diets, including thick liquid, full liquid, and clear liquid diets, and how to tailor nursing diagnoses related to nutrition.

Transitioning to fluid and electrolyte balance, we summarize the key aspects of body fluid regulation, the distribution of major electrolytes, and the intricate processes of acid-base balance. We’ll also discuss the common disturbances in fluid and electrolyte balances, the critical elements of clinical assessments for these imbalances, and the laboratory studies that support diagnostic accuracy.

Moreover, we outline effective nursing interventions for managing these imbalances and the specifics of initiating and maintaining intravenous fluid therapy. Each segment is packed with practical knowledge and nursing actions to address and resolve patient nutritional problems and fluid imbalances. Whether you’re a nursing student or a healthcare professional, this episode is designed to enhance your competency in providing holistic patient care.

All information in this podcast is sourced from ATI and the 2023 edition of Fundamentals of Nursing by Taylor.