TECHNIQUE OF ASSESSMENT OF GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Measurement of physical growth in children is a key element in evaluation of the health status of children. Physical growth parameters include weight, height, head circumference, chest circumference, mid-arm circumference, fontanelle and dentition.
General instructions to be followed during techniques of measurement are:
- Welcome parents and the child to a neat and clean physical environment.
- Sit in front of the child at eye level and explain the reason for carrying out the procedure to parents and child.
- Approach the child in a positive manner.
- Allow the child to handle equipment.
- Allow the older child to participate in certain activities of physical measurement.
- Assure the child that none of the equipment hurts.
- Obtain cooperation of small children by offering toys to them.
- Young child can be allowed to sit in parent's lap.
- Educate the school age child by informing the findings of physical measurement.