Intake and output (I&O) is the measurement of the fluids that enter the body (intake) and the fluids that leave the body (output). The two measurements should be equal.

What is an intake and output?

Intake and output (I&O) indicate the fluid balance for a patient. The goal is to have equal input and output. Too much input can lead to fluid overload. Too much output can cause dehydration. Both situations can put the patient at risk for complications.

What is normal intake and output?

The normal range of urine output is 800 to 2,000 milliliters per day if you have a normal fluid intake of about 2 liters per day. However, different laboratories may use slightly different values.