CNA Certification (Written Exam)Basic Nursing SkillsMedium
A nurse aide is asked to measure a resident's weight. The resident is able to stand and walk short distances. Which method is most appropriate for obtaining an accurate weight measurement?
- AEstimating the weight based on previous records.
- BUsing a bed scale while the resident is lying down.
- CMeasuring the resident on a chair scale.
- DHaving the resident stand on a standing scale.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Having the resident stand on a standing scale.
For a resident who can stand and walk, a standing scale provides the most accurate and direct measurement of body weight. Other methods are used when a resident cannot stand or for specific situations.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Estimating weight is highly inaccurate and should never be done for official measurements or tracking purposes.
- B. Bed scales are used for residents who are bedridden and cannot stand, not for those who can ambulate.
- C. Chair scales are used for residents who can sit but cannot stand, or for those who have difficulty standing for prolonged periods, not typically for those who can ambulate.
Accurate Weight Measurement Methods
The method for obtaining an accurate weight measurement depends on the resident's mobility and ability to stand.
- Standing scale for ambulatory residents.
- Chair scale for residents who can sit but not stand.
- Bed scale for bedridden residents.
- Always zero the scale before use.
Memory trick: S.C.B. - Stand, Chair, Bed.