Which of the following should be monitored to assess volume and electrolyte status?

Monitoring the use of IV fluids and tube feeds is crucial for assessing volume and electrolyte status in patients. These methods directly influence the body's hydration and electrolyte balance. IV fluids can be tailored to provide specific amounts of fluids and electrolytes, making it possible to closely monitor a patient's intake and adjust as necessary based on their medical condition and hydration needs. Tube feeds also contain specific compositions of nutrients and liquids that can impact a patient's hydration and electrolyte levels, depending on their formulation and delivery rate.

In contrast, monitoring the frequency of toileting mainly provides information about urinary output but does not give a comprehensive view of electrolyte status or overall volume. Patient comfort level is important for overall well-being but does not directly correlate with the body's volume or electrolyte needs. Similarly, the level of physical therapy may indicate a patient's mobility and rehabilitation progress but does not provide relevant data for assessing fluid and electrolyte balance. Understanding fluid and electrolyte status is critical, especially in clinical settings where patients may be at risk for imbalances due to medical conditions or treatments.