Anthropometric Measurements Flashcards
What does Anthropometric measurements mean?
Anthropometry = anthropo + metry, Anthropo means ‘human’ and metry means ‘measurement’.
It is the measurement of physical dimensions such the fat mass, composition of the human body. It is a convenient and reliable technique whereby changes in nutrition status can be evaluated.
What are the parameters of anthropometry?
Head circumference
Weight
Height
Chest circumference
Mid upper arm circumference (MUAC)
What is the purpose of anthropometric measurements?
To find out the nutritional status of the child or adult
To find the growth and development pattern of the child
To find any deviation in growth and development from the normal pattern
To help in the treatment plan by assessing the current growth.
To help in conformation of the diagnosis.
Why does the size of the head matter?
Because the size of the skull reflects the growth of the brain. So if a baby’s brain isn’t growing and developing normally, their head circumference may not be increasing as it should.
The head is routinely measured until what age?
5 years old
What device should be used to measure the head circumference?
A device that cannot be stretched, such as a flexible metal tape measure.
What is the procedure for measuring the head circumference?
Measured by placing the tape over the occipital protuberance at the back and just over the supraorbital ridge and the glabella in front.
What is the expected head circumference until 5 years old?
At birth 35cm
2 months 38cm
3 months 40cm
4 months 41cm
6 months 42cm
1 year 45-46cm
2years 47-48cm
5 years 50-51cm
What does weight represent?
Weight represents a measurement of the individuals mass.
What is used to measure weight?
Weight scale
