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Recording a patient's intake and output (I&O) is crucial for monitoring their fluid balance and overall health status. The standard practice often involves measuring and recording I&O every shift, typically every 8 hours, to ensure that any changes in a patient's condition are noted promptly. This frequency allows healthcare providers to track fluid intake and losses over a reasonable timeframe, which is especially critical in patients who are at risk for dehydration or fluid overload, such as those with certain medical conditions or those recovering from surgery.

Recording I&O every shift provides a more comprehensive picture of a patient's fluid status than once daily, which may overlook fluctuations that could indicate potential complications. Continuous monitoring contributes to timely interventions if discrepancies arise. Additionally, relying on subjective requests for I&O measurements can lead to gaps in essential data, making it less effective for ensuring a patient’s safety and care quality.