You must monitor fluid status in the older person and be alert for signs and symptoms of imbalances, including disorientation, confusion, constipation, and falls resulting from postural hypotension. The health history may reveal many chronic conditions, such as heart failure and renal insufficiency, which are more common among older adults and place them at risk for fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Drugs such as antihypertensives, diuretics, and antacids used to treat these and other conditions can also contribute to imbalances. In addition, chronic conditions that affect mobility or mental status may interfere with adequate fluid intake. Some factors that contribute to acute fluid deficits are trauma, infection, fever, influenza or cold, NPO (nothing by mouth) status, and drug therapies (diuretics, antidepressants, sedatives). In addition to the general assessment data, it is especially important to document fluid intake patterns, medications, mental status, and recent weight loss.