Assignment 2: Anthropometrical Measurements

This lab is for students to develop skills taking circumference, skeletal and girth measurements.
The purpose of circumference measurements is to determine a centralized versus a general pattern of fat distribution.

 Technique & Guidelines

• Ask for permission to touch and explain what the assessment will involve
• Ask the client what unit of measurement they prefer assessment results recorded as
• All assessments using a measuring tape use a crossover technique
• All tape measures should be flat and level
• Make sure the tape measure is not pulled too tightly – avoid indenting the skin
• Measurements are taken to the nearest 0.5cm & 0.1in
• Assessor should be off to the side of the client when taking measurements in-line with mid-body
• Tape measurements should always be taken against the skin of the client, unless the client does not feel comfortable. In this circumstance, measurements can be taken over the clothes and the Assessor is to make a note on the client’s assessment form
• For clients who are morbidly obese, before an assessment the Assessor should tape two measuring tapes together

Special Note: Assessors should always be mindful of the client’s perspective, culture/religious customs and gender equality.