Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Which output classification would classify a fistula producing 450 ml of drainage per 24 hours?

1. High output

2. Low output

3. Moderate output

4. Non-output

The correct answer is: Low output

The classification of fistula output is usually determined by the volume of drainage produced within a 24-hour period. In general, a high-output fistula is defined as producing more than 500 ml of drainage per day. In contrast, a low-output fistula typically generates less than 200 to 300 ml of drainage daily, while moderate output falls somewhere in between. Given that the reported output in this case is 450 ml per 24 hours, this puts the drainage volume within the moderate output range. Thus, it would be classified as moderate output instead of low output. Recognizing this classification is crucial for establishing appropriate management strategies, including fluid and electrolyte balance and nutritional support, especially since output volumes can significantly influence the overall health status of the patient.