NVQ evidence

Taking Physical measurement

Weight

Girth

Height

Weight

Weighing clients is very important for the following reasons:-

• It provides a benchmark on admission by which any changes can be measured
• It is factor of Body Mass Index which can be used in establishing whether in individual has weigh problems and remedial action can be taken.
• It provides as basis for the delivery of specific treatments.

Equipment

• Weighing scales suitable for the client. Free standing scales, seat scales and hoist scales are available.
• Client specific moving and handling equipment as prescribed
• Suitable footwear and clothing for client

Procedure

1. Explain the procedure to the client to ensure that any consent is given validly.
2. Prepare the equipment and ensure it is working properly to ensure validity of results and smooth procedure. Set to zero as necessary.
3. Ensure that all attire that is warn by the client is both practical for the purpose, to optimize health and safety, and that is maintains the client’s dignity to the maximum.
4. Using any prescribed moving and handling equipment necessary, ensure that client uses scales as required in the correct manner.
5. Observe weight
6. Assist client, as necessary, off scales back to a comfortable position to for them.
7. Record on the appropriate part of the client’s care plan, ie a weight chart. Report to Registered Practitioner as required.

Notes

• If a client is on a weighing regime, then the procedure must be undertaken at the same time of day and wearing the same or similar garments. Weigh is best measured post maturition.
• Weight is very often used for clients with cardiac failure as fluid retention is one of the main problems of the condition.

Body mass index is a comparison of a client’s weight to their height. It is calculated thus:-

Body mass index = Weight (kg)

Height (m)²

Although this can be a useful tool, it has limitations because muscle wasting and water retention can mask the client’s actual weight.

Height

Height is usually measured while the client is standing, bare foot using a wall mounted ruler. This is usually measured in metres or centimetres.

Where this is not possible, a demi-span can be taken. This involves measuring from the index finger to the middle of the sternum with the arm stretched out to the side. This measurement doubled is equates approximately to a clients height.

Girth

This is the length of the circumference of any given area of the body. This can include the abdomen, the arms, the calves, etc.

It is best to under take this measurement at the same time of the day and at the same point on the area in question. This can be achieved by marking the skin with a special skin marking pen. This must be a specific pen for marking skin as inks from other pens may cause problems such as blood sepsis.

posted by alanpjack  # 5:22 AM