372 Chapter 16 Procedure Measuring the Height of Bedridden Residents Rationale Height measurements must be accurate for bedridden residents. The height measurement may be used when calculating medication dosages and residents’ nutritional needs. Preparation 1. Ask the licensed nursing staff how this procedure fits into the plan of care, if there are doctor’s orders for the procedure, if there are any special instructions or precautions, and if the resident can be moved into the positions required for this procedure. 2. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before entering the room. 3. Knock before entering the room. 4. Introduce yourself using your full name and title. Explain that you work with the licensed nursing staff and will be providing care. 5. Greet the resident and ask the resident to state his full name, if able. Then check the resident’s identification bracelet. 6. Use Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and the last name when conversing. 7. Explain the procedure in simple terms, even if the resident is not able to communicate or is disoriented. Ask permission to perform the procedure. 8. Bring the necessary equipment into the room. Place the following items in an easy-to-reach place: • a tape measure • a pen and pad, form, or digital device for documenting the height 9. You will need another person to assist in this measurement. Ask a coworker to help. The Procedure 10. Provide privacy by closing the curtains, using a screen, or closing the door to the room. 11. Lock the bed wheels and then raise the bed to hip level. 12. Maintain safety during the procedure. If there are side rails, raise and lock the rails on the opposite side of the bed from where you will be working. Lower the rail on the side you are working. 13. If allowed, have the resident lie on his back, as straight as possible, with his arms straight against his sides. Best Practice: Straighten and tighten the bedsheet. 14. Extend the tape measure along the side of the resident from the top of his head to the bottom of his heel. 15. Measure the distance between the two points. 16. Document the height on a pad, on a form, or in the electronic record. 17. Check to be sure the bed wheels are locked, then reposition the resident and lower the bed. 18. Follow the plan of care to determine if the side rails should be raised or lowered. Follow-Up 19. Wash your hands to ensure infection control. 20. Make sure the resident is comfortable and place the call light and personal items within reach. 21. Conduct a safety check before leaving the room. The room should be clean and free from clutter or spills. 22. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before leaving the room. Reporting and Documentation 23. Report any specific observations, complications, or unusual responses to the licensed nursing staff. Procedure Weighing Bedridden Residents Using a Hydraulic Digital Lift or Sling Bed Scale Rationale Weight measurements must be accurate for bedridden residents. The weight measurement may be used to calculate medication dosages and residents’ nutritional needs. Preparation 1. Ask the licensed nursing staff how this procedure fits into the plan of care, if there are doctor’s orders for the procedure, if there are any special instructions or precautions, and if the resident can be moved into the positions required for this procedure. 2. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before entering the room. 3. Knock before entering the room. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.