Importance of Patient Bodyweight in Hospitals

Abby Petersen
Hannah Van Iperen
Brittnay Berry
Karie Stamer

Abstract

Ten research articles that included information about patient weights, weight errors, and importance on weight in relation to nutritional assessment, fluid assessment, and medication doses were reviewed to create a policy. The results of the articles conclude that within healthcare, the facilities are not doing enough in making sure each patient is being weighed during their hospital stay. Nurses and other patient care staff should be properly educated and trained on how to obtain body weights to reduce the instances of inaccuracy.

 

Importance of Patient Bodyweight in Hospitals

Ten research articles that included information about patient weights, weight errors, and importance on weight in relation to nutritional assessment, fluid assessment, and medication doses were reviewed to create a policy. The results of the articles conclude that within healthcare, the facilities are not doing enough in making sure each patient is being weighed during their hospital stay. Nurses and other patient care staff should be properly educated and trained on how to obtain body weights to reduce the instances of inaccuracy.