Vol. 7, Issue 3, Part A (2024)
The use of demi-span, knee height and four point measurements for height estimation among Iraqian adults at Baghdad medical city
Author(s):
Wasan Taha Dawood and Waleed Ibraheem Ali
Abstract:
Background: Accurate assessment of nutritional status depends on precise measurements of both body weight and height. Measuring standing height in older patients is often challenging due to limited mobility and kyphosis. Therefore, alternative methods such as demi-span, knee height, and the four-point method have been developed to estimate height. However, there is limited data on the accuracy and clinical suitability of these methods.
Methodology: This study included a convenient sample of 400 adult patients who visited the nutrition clinic at Baghdad Medical City between December 1, 2023, and March 28, 2024. Anthropometric measurements including standing height, demi-span, knee height, and four-point method were taken using standard equipment.
Results: A strong statistical correlation was found between standing height and knee height (r=0.90). Similarly, a strong correlation was observed between standing height and demi-span (r=0.91) among all participants.
Conclusion: The study concluded that both demi-span and knee height are reliable methods for estimating height in both male and female patients. Knee height was identified as the most accurate method for height estimation. However, the four-point method should be used with caution, particularly for bedridden or immobilized patients, due to its lower accuracy.
Pages: 38-42 | 330 Views 130 Downloads
How to cite this article:
Wasan Taha Dawood and Waleed Ibraheem Ali. The use of demi-span, knee height and four point measurements for height estimation among Iraqian adults at Baghdad medical city. Int. J. Adv. Community Med. 2024;7(3):38-42. DOI: https://doi.org/10.33545/comed.2024.v7.i3a.323
