Module 4 - Body Measurements
Body measurement is also referred to as anthropometric measurement.
Useful Tools
- Recording Form. See sample form and prompt sheet
- Firm assessment surface such as a plinth, firm chair
- Foot block/platform to support the feet if the sitting surface is too high
- Metal measuring tape - unit measured in millimetres or inches as appropriate
- Goniometer
- Clip boards or wooden rulers as reference point for measuring
- A measuring calliper enables the measurements to be obtained accurately and quickly.
Conducting a Body Measurement
The measuring process should take a maximum of 10 minutes.
Preparation
- Be prepared by having the tools and the recording form within reach
- Consider having another person if possible to scribe the measurements or to assist with holding the clip board in position as a reference point
- The measuring calliper is a very useful tool when you are on your own.
Process
- Body measurement can be conducted straight after the supine or sitting MAT assessments to reduce the number of client transfers, depending on the client needs (see below "Risk assessment and safety concerns")
- A general guide for conducting a body measurement
- For hands-free sitters and hands-dependant sitters who are able to maintain the required posture, sitting is the best position for the process
- For 'propped sitters, measure in supine
- Refer to Timeline suggestion for assessment task
- Seating postural goals are established after the MAT process in SSM3. The client should be measured according to this established desired posture. See example.
- View video "Conducting a body measurement in the supine position"