University:
Liberty University
Course:
BIOM 500 | Introduction to Biomedical Sciences
Academic year:

2024
Views:

108

Pages:

6
Author:

Sheha A.

**Assessment of Nutritional Status** Additional assessments is the interpretation of results of the biochemical (laboratory) clinical & dietary assessments. **Anthropometric Measurements** The word Anthropometry comes from two Greek words: anthropos means human and metron means measure. Anthropometric measurements are used to assess the growth and development of children. They are also used to assess the health and nutritional status of individuals. Anthropometric measurements can be taken by health professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and dietitians. They can also be taken by parents or caregivers at home. **Anthropometric Measurements** 1. **Length:** * A wooden measuring board (infantometer) is used for infants. * A measuring tape is used for children and adults. **Anthropometric Measurements** **1. Length** * A wooden measuring board (infantometer) is used for infants. * The child is placed in a supine position on the board. * The child's head is aligned with the zero mark on the board. * The feet are extended and the knees are straight. * The measurement is taken from the crown of the head to the heel. **2. Height** * This is measured with the child standing erect in a vertical position against a wall. * The child should stand straight with heels together, back straight, and arms relaxed at the sides. * The child's head should touch the headboard. * A perpendicular line is drawn from the crown of the head to the floor. * The distance between the floor and the line represents the child's vertical height. **3. Weight** * A weighing scale is used to measure the weight. * The child should be weighed without any clothing. * The scale should be calibrated regularly. **4. Mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC)** * A measuring tape is used to measure the circumference of the upper arm at the midpoint between the acromion process and the olecranon process. * The arm should be relaxed and hanging freely at the side of the body. **5. Head circumference** * A non-stretchable measuring tape is used to measure the circumference of the head. * The tape should be placed around the widest part of the head, just above the eyebrows and ears. **3. Weight** * A weight scale (spring balance) also called the "infant scale" is used for measuring the weight of children under the age of 2 years. * In both cases, a digital electronic scale can be used if such a scale is available and does not require to be calibrated.