Which term denotes the process of consuming substances to meet bodily needs?

Which term denotes the process of consuming substances to meet bodily needs?

• A. Output
• B. Intake or input
• C. Digestion
• D. Excretion

Answer: (B)

Taking substances into the body to meet its needs is intake. This term covers what you consume—food and fluids—that provide energy, nutrients, and hydration. It’s the action opposite of digestion, which is the body breaking down what’s been eaten, and excretion, which is eliminating waste. In nursing practice, intake is also the standard way we document how much a resident has consumed, often measured in milliliters for liquids and portions for solids. Sometimes you’ll see the word input used interchangeably, but intake is the commonly used term in patient care.

Taking substances into the body to meet its needs is intake. This term covers what you consume—food and fluids—that provide energy, nutrients, and hydration. It’s the action opposite of digestion, which is the body breaking down what’s been eaten, and excretion, which is eliminating waste. In nursing practice, intake is also the standard way we document how much a resident has consumed, often measured in milliliters for liquids and portions for solids. Sometimes you’ll see the word input used interchangeably, but intake is the commonly used term in patient care.