Measuring a Mid-Upper Arm Circumference

Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

22 Apr 202002:05

Summary

TLDRThe video script provides instructions on measuring mid-upper arm circumference, a useful method for monitoring weight changes when weighing isn't possible. It emphasizes the importance of repeating measurements over time and consulting with a dietitian for interpretation. The process involves finding the midpoint between the shoulder and elbow, using a disposable measuring tape, and ensuring the tape is neither too tight nor too loose. The final measurement is recorded and shared with a dietitian for further guidance.

Takeaways

📏 Middle Arm Circumference (MAC) is a useful measurement when weighing is not feasible.
🔍 MAC doesn't indicate a specific weight but can show weight changes over time.
👩‍⚕️ A dietitian can advise on the frequency of MAC checks and interpret the measurements.
👥 Assistance from another person may be needed for children or individuals with difficulty following instructions.
🧳 Essential equipment includes a non-disposable measuring tape and a ballpoint pen.
🧼 Hand hygiene is important; wash hands for at least 20 seconds before the measurement.
🧤 In clinical settings, gloves or personal protective equipment (PPE) may be necessary.
🤲 The measurement should be taken on the left or least affected arm, especially for those with conditions like stroke.
📐 Locate the midpoint of the arm by measuring from the shoulder bone to the elbow and marking the halfway point.
📋 Ensure the arm is relaxed and hanging naturally when taking the circumference measurement.
✏️ Record the measurement accurately, ensuring the tape is neither too tight nor too loose.

Q & A

What is the purpose of measuring mid-upper arm circumference?
-Measuring mid-upper arm circumference can be helpful if it is not possible to weigh a person, as it does not indicate a specific weight but can show if someone is gaining or losing weight over time.
Who should advise on how often to check a person's mid-upper arm circumference?
-A dietitian should advise on how often to check a person's mid-upper arm circumference.
Why might two people be needed to take a mid-upper arm circumference measurement?
-Two people may be needed to take a mid-upper arm circumference measurement on a child or a person who may struggle to follow instructions.
What equipment is required to measure mid-upper arm circumference?
-A non-disposable measuring tape that the dietician can provide and a ballpoint pen are required.
Why is handwashing important before taking the measurement?
-Handwashing for at least 20 seconds is important for hygiene purposes before taking the measurement, and in a clinical setting, wearing gloves or relevant PPE may also be necessary.
Which arm should be measured for mid-upper arm circumference?
-The measurement should be taken on the left or least affected arm if the person has had a stroke or has altered tone in their limbs.
How should the arm be positioned to find the midpoint for measurement?
-The arm should be bent at a right angle to locate the midpoint, which is found halfway between the tip of the shoulder bone and the tip of the elbow.
What is the correct position of the arm when taking the circumference measurement?
-The arm should be hanging down by the side of the body and relaxed when taking the circumference measurement.
How should the tape measure be positioned and used during the measurement?
-The tape measure should be placed around the midpoint of the arm without pinching the skin too tight or being too loose, and the zero mark should line up with the measurement.
What should be done with the measurement after it is taken?
-The measurement should be recorded and sent to the dietitian, who will interpret the results and advise on any necessary changes.
Why is it important not to focus on the colors on the tape measure?
-It is important not to focus on the colors on the tape measure because the dietitian will interpret the numerical measurement, and the colors are not relevant for this purpose.

Outlines

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📏 Measuring Mid-Upper Arm Circumference

This paragraph discusses the importance of measuring mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) as a non-weight-based indicator of a person's health status. It suggests that while MUAC does not directly indicate weight, repeated measurements can show trends in weight gain or loss. A dietitian can provide guidance on how often to measure MUAC and interpret the results. The process requires a disposable measuring tape and a ballpoint pen. The measurement should be taken on the left or least affected arm, with the arm bent at a right angle to find the midpoint. The tape measure is then placed around this point, ensuring it is not too tight or loose, and the measurement is recorded. The dietitian will use this data to advise on any necessary changes to the individual's health regimen.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Mid Upper Arm Circumference

Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) is a measurement taken at the midpoint of the upper arm. It is a non-weight-based anthropometric indicator used to assess changes in nutritional status and can be particularly helpful in situations where weighing is not feasible. In the video, MUAC is emphasized as a tool for tracking weight changes over time, which is crucial for monitoring health, especially in children or individuals who may have difficulty following instructions for weight measurements.

💡Dietitian

A dietitian is a nutrition professional who provides guidance on healthy eating and can advise on appropriate dietary changes. In the context of the video, the dietitian plays a critical role in interpreting MUAC measurements and recommending how often these should be taken. They also instruct on what the measurements signify and any necessary lifestyle or dietary adjustments.

💡Measurement

Measurement refers to the process of determining the size, amount, or degree of something, which in this video, is specifically the mid upper arm circumference. Accurate measurement is essential for tracking health and nutritional changes. The video script provides a detailed procedure for taking this measurement, emphasizing the need for precision to ensure reliable results.

💡Disposable Measuring Tape

A disposable measuring tape is a single-use tool used for taking measurements to maintain hygiene, especially in clinical settings. The video mentions that the dietitian can provide such a tape, which is crucial for the MUAC measurement. This ensures that the measurement process is both accurate and hygienic, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

💡Ballpoint Pen

A ballpoint pen is used in the measurement process to mark the midpoint of the arm, as described in the video. This tool is essential for ensuring the accuracy of the MUAC measurement by providing a clear and visible mark at the exact location where the tape measure should be placed.

💡Hygiene

Hygiene in the video refers to the practice of maintaining cleanliness to prevent the spread of infections, especially important in clinical settings. The script advises washing hands for at least 20 seconds before taking measurements, which is a basic hygiene practice that helps maintain a safe and healthy environment for both the person being measured and the person taking the measurement.

💡PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes items such as gloves and masks that are worn to protect the wearer from health risks. The video mentions that in a clinical setting, one may choose to wear gloves or other relevant PPE while taking MUAC measurements. This is to ensure the safety of both the individual being measured and the person conducting the measurement.

💡Midpoint of the Arm

The midpoint of the arm is the exact location halfway between the shoulder and the elbow, which is where the MUAC measurement is taken. The video script provides instructions on how to locate this point by measuring from the tip of the shoulder bone to the tip of the elbow and marking the halfway point. This is crucial for obtaining an accurate and consistent measurement.

💡Arm Position

The position of the arm during the measurement is important for accuracy. The video specifies that the arm should be hanging down by the side of the body and relaxed when the MUAC measurement is taken. This ensures that the measurement is not affected by muscle tension or other factors that could alter the circumference.

💡Tape Measure

A tape measure is the tool used to actually take the MUAC measurement. The video script describes how to properly position the tape measure around the midpoint of the arm without pinching the skin, ensuring that the measurement is neither too tight nor too loose. This is essential for obtaining a reliable measurement that can be used to track changes over time.

💡Recording Measurement

Recording the measurement refers to the act of noting down the obtained MUAC value. The video emphasizes the importance of recording the measurement accurately and sending it to the dietitian for analysis. This step is crucial as it allows for tracking changes in nutritional status and informing any necessary dietary or health interventions.

Highlights

Measuring mid-upper arm circumference can be helpful if weighing is not possible.

Mid-upper arm circumference does not indicate a specific weight.

Repeated measurements can show weight gain or loss over time.

A dietitian can advise on the frequency of mid-upper arm circumference checks.

Measurements are used to assess changes in a person's condition.

Two people may be needed for measuring children or those who struggle with instructions.

Equipment needed includes a disposable measuring tape and a ballpoint pen.

Hands should be washed for at least 20 seconds before taking measurements.

Gloves or PPE may be worn in a clinical setting.

Measurements should be taken on the left or least affected arm.

The midpoint of the arm is found by bending it at a right angle.

The midpoint is marked halfway between the shoulder bone and the elbow.

The arm should hang down relaxed during measurement.

The tape measure should not be too tight or too loose.

The zero mark on the tape should align with the measurement.

Colors on the tape are not relevant; only the numerical measurement is recorded.

Record the measurement and send it to the dietitian for interpretation and advice.