What is the correct method for taking a resident's weight?

• A. Weigh the resident after a meal
• B. Use a calibrated scale; zero the scale; have the resident stand or sit still; ensure minimal clothing; record weight
• C. Weigh the resident with heavy clothing
• D. Use an uncalibrated scale

Answer: (B)

To get an accurate weight, you need a properly maintained measurement process. Use a calibrated scale and zero it before weighing so the baseline is correct. Have the resident stand or sit still to avoid movement that can blur the reading and make it unreliable. Minimize clothing to prevent extra weight from garments, and then record the exact weight so it can be tracked over time. Weighing after a meal can give a higher, temporary number due to food and fluids in the stomach and digestive tract, and using heavy clothing or an uncalibrated scale would produce inaccurate results. If the resident can’t stand, a chair or bed scale can be used, but the same principles of calibration, zeroing, stillness, and minimal clothing still apply.