CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsHard
When weighing a resident on a standing scale to track weight changes over time, which practice ensures the most accurate comparison between readings?
- AAlternate between different scales located on different units
- BWeigh the resident wearing different amounts of clothing each time for comfort
- CWeigh the resident at a different time each day depending on staffing availability
- DWeigh the resident at the same time of day, on the same scale, wearing similar clothing
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Weigh the resident at the same time of day, on the same scale, wearing similar clothing
To obtain accurate, comparable weight measurements over time, the resident should be weighed under the same conditions each time: same scale, same time of day, and similar clothing, minimizing variables that could cause false weight changes.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Different scales may not be calibrated the same, causing inaccurate comparisons.
- B. Different clothing amounts add or subtract weight, skewing the comparison.
- C. Varying the time of day can cause weight fluctuations due to food, fluid, or clothing differences.
Accurate Weight Measurement
Consistent conditions—same scale, same time of day, and similar clothing—are required to obtain accurate and comparable weight readings.
- Weigh at the same time of day, ideally before breakfast
- Use the same scale each time for consistency
- Note similar clothing/footwear to avoid skewed results
Memory trick: 'Same scale, same time, same clothes, true trend'