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Which of the following steps should a medical assistant take in preparation for obtaining a weight measurement from a patient?

Rationale

Ensure the scale is balanced.

Balancing the scale is a crucial step in obtaining an accurate weight measurement, as an unbalanced scale can lead to incorrect readings. This ensures that the weight recorded reflects the patient's true weight without any discrepancies caused by the equipment.

A (Have the patient remove clothes before measurement.) YOUR ANSWER

While removing heavy clothing can contribute to a more accurate weight, it is not a necessary step in the preparation process. Patients can be weighed in lightweight clothing, and this choice does not directly address the critical preparation of the scale itself.

C (Disinfect the scale with cavicide.) YOUR ANSWER

Disinfecting the scale is an important practice for infection control, but it is not specifically a preparatory step for obtaining a weight measurement. The primary focus should be on ensuring the scale is functional and accurate before proceeding with the measurement.

D (Put on gloves.) YOUR ANSWER

Wearing gloves may be appropriate in certain clinical situations to maintain hygiene, but it is not essential for weighing a patient. The preparation for weight measurement primarily involves checking the equipment rather than personal protective measures.

Conclusion

The preparation for obtaining a weight measurement centers on ensuring the scale's functionality, with balancing being the foremost step. While other options may contribute to overall patient care and hygiene, they do not directly impact the accuracy of the weight measurement process. Accurate weight readings are critical for patient assessment and treatment, making equipment preparation a priority.

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