Recording body weight is a standard practice for hospital admissions. You can remove barriers to performing this task by implementing a weighing system that is fast, simple and effective.
Recording body weight is a critical function within a hospital, often required in emergency departments, intensive care, medical and surgical wards. However, recent studies have found that only 13-55% of hospital patients had their bodyweight recorded upon admission. In busy hospitals, it is important to remove barriers to performing this task by implementing a weighing system that is fast, simple and effective.
Static Weighing Systems
The availability of appropriate weighing equipment can become a barrier to hospital staff when weighing admissions. Portable scales are easily lost in a busy hospital, so a static weighing station is a great way to ensure staff know where weighing equipment is at all times.
A platform scale can be installed with on and off ramps or in a pit so that it sits level with the ground. A weighing station can’t be moved or lost, making it ideal for a hospital setting. Incorporating a designated static place of measurement creates an effective measuring process, increasing patient care and employee accuracy.
Correct Equipment
Another barrier to weighing hospital admissions is a lack of correct weighing equipment. Hospitals need the correct equipment to weigh bedridden and low-mobility patients. Wheelchair scales, bed scales and chair scales are great options for use in these cases.
An in-ground platform scale or a platform scale with on and off ramps can also be used in these cases to allow staff to wheel patients on and off the weighing system.
At Australasia Scales, we provide a range of medical and healthcare scales to provide efficient and effective measurement. For more information on which scales suit your practice, contact us today and see how we can assist you in weighing up your options!
