Quick Tips
MUAC Weight
Maker sure that…
It is measured on the left
arm.
You find mid-point of the
upper arm - measured
from the tip of the
shoulder to the elbow
You do not pull the MUAC
tape too tight or too loose
Height/length
Maker sure that…
The children are not
wearing any clothes
If a Salter scale is used:
The scale reads 0 after
putting the weight pants
or the plastic bucket
measurer reads the scale
at eye level
If an electronic scale is
used: the scale is
situated in a flat surface
The scale does not read
‘0.00’ (the scale is not
flat) before a child (or
the caretaker if double
weighting) steps on the
scale.
Calibration of the scale is
done daily (even more
often if necessary).
OEDEMA
Maker sure that… Maker sure that…
Two measurers are doing It is assessed in both
the measurement. feet.
Children are well placed That thumbs are
on the height board. pressed on the feet for
When measuring length 3 seconds before
make sure: toes are not removing to look for
pointed, knees are not oedema.
bent, head is not lifted
off the board. When Do not press thumbs to
measuring height make hard which can cause
sure: Child is not leaning unnecessary pain to
to one side, heels are the child.
touching the board.
Children under 2 years
(or 87 cm) will be
measured lying down.
The tape measure on the
height board is in a good
condition and possible to
read.