Abstract
Objective: To map and analyze the records referring to the fluid balance held in the intensive care unit. Methods: This is a descriptive study with transversal design and quantitative approach, guided by the tool: Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE). Fluid balance records for the months of July to September 2019 were analyzed. The numerical variables were submitted to frequency calculations, average and standard deviation. The categorical variables were submitted to Pearson’s Chi-square association test using the BioEstat 5.3 software. Results: Records relating to oral, enteral and parenteral volume gain were found. With regard to the losses, records of elimination by diuresis, evacuation, vomiting, tubular drain and losses quantified by hemodialysis were found. Records referring to insensitive losses were not found. Of the analyzed records 49% presented calculation errors that caused deviations of 10ml to 2960ml in the fluid balance result. The incidence of errors was strongly associated with two main factors: the time of day and the route. Conclusion: Many records referring to the fluid balance were incomplete and had calculation errors that may interfere in the evaluation of the patients and consequently on the therapeutic conducts.