What amount of fluid per kilogram per day should the nurse encourage the patient to drink for proper wound healing?

• A. 15-20 mL
• B. 20-25 mL
• C. 25-30 mL
• D. 30-35 mL

Answer: (D)

Adequate hydration supports wound healing by keeping tissues well hydrated, ensuring good blood flow to the wound, delivering oxygen and nutrients, and helping remove waste. Water also aids collagen synthesis and cell migration into the wound bed, which are key steps in healing. For adults with normal kidney function, a practical target is about 30 to 35 mL of fluid per kilogram of body weight per day. This range helps meet the increased needs of healing skin and prevents dehydration that can slow repair. If there’s fever, significant wound drainage, or other factors, fluids may need to be adjusted upward under medical guidance. Ranges lower than this—such as 15-20, 20-25, or 25-30 mL/kg/day—are typically not sufficient to support optimal wound healing.