Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

What is the correct method for measuring the height of a resident who cannot stand?

1. Estimate based on weight

2. Measure while the resident is sitting

3. Take the measurement while the resident is flat in bed

4. Ask the resident for their height

The correct answer is: Take the measurement while the resident is flat in bed

When measuring the height of a resident who cannot stand, the correct approach is to take the measurement while the resident is flat in bed. This method ensures accuracy, as it allows for a straightforward measurement from the top of the bed to the heel of the resident's foot, providing a reliable height reading. Measuring while the resident is sitting can introduce errors, as individuals may sit at varying angles and positions that can affect the height measurement. Estimating based on weight is not a reliable method for determining height and can lead to significant inaccuracies. Asking the resident for their height may not yield trustworthy information since they may not remember their height correctly or might even misstate it due to various reasons such as memory issues or physical changes. Therefore, taking the measurement while the resident is flat in bed is the most accurate and appropriate method in this context.