7.12 Skills Checklist: Measuring Weight for Ambulatory Residents

1. Gather Supplies: Gait belt and scale

2. Routine Pre-Procedure Steps:

    • Knock on the client’s door.
    • Perform hand hygiene.
    • Introduce yourself and identify the resident.
    • Maintain respectful, courteous, and professional communication at all times.
    • Provide for privacy.
    • Explain the procedure to the client.

3. Procedure Steps:

    • Verify the resident is wearing nonskid footwear.
    • Balance (or zero) scale.
    • If the resident is in a wheelchair, apply the brakes.
    • Assist the resident to stand, using a gait belt as needed.
    • Walk the resident to the scale.
    • Assist the resident to step on the scale.
    • Check that the resident is centered on the scale.
    • Check that the resident has their arms at their side.
    • Ensure the resident is not holding on to anything that would alter the reading of the weight.
    • Adjust the weights until the scale is in balance or read analog scale.
    • Assist the resident back to a seated position.
    • Remove the gait belt if it was used.
    • Release the brakes if the resident is seated in a wheelchair.

4. Post-Procedure Steps:

    • Check on resident comfort and ask if anything else is needed.
    • Ensure the bed is low and locked. Check the brakes.
    • Place the call light or signaling device within reach of the resident.
    • Open the door and privacy curtain.
    • Perform hand hygiene.
    • Document weight and report abnormal findings to the nurse.

View a YouTube video[1] of an instructor demonstration of measuring weight:

 


  1. Chippewa Valley Technical College. (2022, December 3). Measuring Weight. [Video]. YouTube. Video licensed under CC BY 4.0. https://youtu.be/QnQoEwdcG1k

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