Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

How will a nursing assistant measure the height of a resident who cannot get out of bed?

1. The NA will use a scale.

2. The NA will use a tape measure.

3. The NA will estimate height by looking at the resident.

4. The NA will not be able to measure height.

The correct answer is: The NA will use a tape measure.

To measure the height of a resident who cannot get out of bed, using a tape measure is the appropriate method because it allows for a consistent and accurate measurement while accommodating the resident's condition. The nursing assistant can measure the height from the bed to a predetermined point on the wall, often marking the point where the top of the resident's head reaches. This method is practical in a bed-bound situation, ensuring that the assessment is done safely and efficiently. Utilizing a scale or trying to estimate height visually is not reliable and could lead to inaccuracies. Estimating by looking is particularly problematic, as it cannot provide a standard measurement. Additionally, although it might seem that measuring is not possible for a resident who is bedridden, the use of a tape measure effectively overcomes that barrier. Therefore, employing a tape measure is the practical solution for obtaining an accurate height measurement in this scenario.