Arm circumference assessment in infants and children Aim

Arm circumference assessment in infants and children

Aim To correctly measure, interpret and monitor the arm circumference of infants and young children. Equipment Clean flexible, non-stretchable measuring tape or disposable paper tape. The tape should have increments of 0. 1 cm and a width of 0. 5 – 1. 0 cm. Check tape against a static measure for accuracy, and replace regularly as required.

Steps Rational 1. Wash hands before procedure. Maintain clean procedure 2. Engagement and consent: Procedure Explain the procedure to the parent/carer, and child where appropriate. Allow sufficient time for discussion of concerns. Ensure verbal parental consent has been obtained Encourage parent/carer support and involvement with the procedure where possible.

3. Preparation: Facilitate procedure. Sit the infant/child on the parent/carer lap facing the health professional. Let the child's right arm flexed 90 at elbow. 4. Measuring: Mark mid-point between acromion and olecranon on posterior aspect of arm. Have accurate results (Some staff may wish to repeat measurement a number of times, where the child is comfortable with the process, to enable consistency in technique and accuracy with results. )

5. Recording: Standardized reading. Record the circumference in the nearest 0. 5 cm. Repeat the measurement to confirm the reading.