How to Read a Weight Scale:
The nursing care plan will tell you how often a patient’s height and weight should be taken. You can also ask your charge nurse at any time to see if it’s needed.
Supplies:
Scale
Recording Sheet
Chair
Steps:
Wash your hands
Provide privacy for the patient by pulling the curtain closed
Ask the patient if they are dizzy, if so give them a moment to rest and offer a glass of water
If they are not dizzy ask them to stand, hold onto one arm, and assist if needed
Assist with walking to scale (continue to check in on their movements and balance)
Pause in front of scale
Zero out the scale
Assist the patient as they step up onto the scale
Weigh the patient
Assist them off the scale and back to the chair, making sure they’re not dizzy or off-balance
Record the patient’s weight on the sheet provided
Clear the scale so it’s ready for the next patient because a patient’s weight is considered private information
Wash hands, place the call light in the patient’s hand and pull the curtain closed
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