When should the weight be recorded?

• A. After returning the resident to the wheelchair and seating them
• B. While the resident is still on the scale
• C. Before balancing the scale
• D. Before assisting to stand

Answer: (A)

Recording weight after the resident is back in the wheelchair and seated ensures the reading reflects the person’s body weight in a stable, safe position. If you try to capture the number while they’re still on the scale or during transfer, movement can make the reading inaccurate and the chair’s weight may complicate the measurement. Waiting until they’re seated lets you record a final, settled measurement and then adjust for the chair’s weight if your protocol requires it. This approach also keeps the resident safely supported and not left unattended on the scale.