369 Objectives To achieve the objectives for this section, you must successfully • describe why height and weight measurements are important to know when providing care and • demonstrate the skills needed to measure height and weight accurately and effectively for ambulatory, wheelchair-bound, and bedridden residents. Key Terms Learn these key terms to better understand the information presented in the section. body mass index (BMI) ideal body weight (IBW) malnutrition Questions to Consider • How often do you weigh yourself? Do you keep track of your weight? • Are you happy with your weight? If you are not, what changes would you like to make? How would you go about making these changes? Why Is It Important to Measure Height and Weight? Height and weight are usually measured on admission to a healthcare facility, during a resident’s stay, and during a visit to a doctor’s office. How often these measurements are taken (daily, weekly, or monthly) depends on doctors’ orders for a health condition or disease. For example, a resident with kidney disease or congestive heart failure (CHF) may need to be weighed daily to help determine if he or she has edema (fluid build-up in the body tissues). Height and weight measurements help healthcare staff to monitor a resident’s health and determine nutritional status and medication dosages. The relationship between height and weight is also important because it can help determine a resident’s overall health status. Height and weight are used to calculate ideal body weight (IBW) and body mass index (BMI). Ideal body weight (IBW) is the healthiest weight for an individual. Body mass index (BMI) is a number that determines whether a resident is a healthy weight, overweight, or underweight. This number is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms (kg) by height in meters (m) squared. These calculations help a doctor plan calorie intake, protein, and fluid needs for a resident. Measuring Height Height can be measured in two ways. If a resident is able to walk, you can use an upright, balance scale to measure height. If a resident is bedridden, you will need to use a tape measure. Height should be recorded in feet (′) and inches (″) or in centimeters (cm), depending on facility policy. If a resident is able to walk, have the resident stand very straight on the center of the scale with arms and hands down at his or her sides. Lower the height bar until it rests on the top of the head. Read the height at the movable part of the ruler. If a resident is bedridden, use a tape measure. If allowed, have the resident lie on his or her back, as straight as possible with arms straight at the sides and legs extended. Straighten and tighten the bedsheet. With the help of another healthcare staff member, extend the tape measure along the resident’s side from the top of the head to the bottom of the heel (Figure 16.28). Measure the distance between the two points. Measuring Weight A resident’s weight is often used to calculate medication dosage accurate measurement is very important. Weight can also be a sign of certain conditions, such as malnutrition (poor nourishment) or edema. Weight Measuring and Recording Height and Weight 16.2 section © Tori Soper Photography Figure 16.28 To measure the height of a bedridden resident, use a tape measure. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.