Recording and Calculation of Body Mass Index of the patient

[ps2id id=’background’ target=”/]

BACKGROUND

The body mass index (BMI) or also known as Quetelet index is derived from the weight and height of an individual. This is used to access the body composition and provides an estimate on the content of fat in the body. The values obtained by the calculation helps in determining if the subject is underweight, normal weight or overweight. This is mainly used as a screening tool and not a diagnostic test.¹

The BMI is calculated by dividing weight divided by height square. The normal BMI ranges from 18.5 kg/m², for underweight, 18.5-25 kg/m² normal weight and 25 to 30kg/m² Overweight. The equation is BMI= weight /height×height.
This can also be measured by the weight in pounds divided by the height square in inches and multiplying by 703.²

The equation is BMI= (weight /height²) × 703.

The calculation of BMI has limitations. It does not depend on age and gender. It only uses height and weight for calculation. There might be people with below-average height and muscle mass, in which case the calculation renders them overweight.

Aim of the experiment is to record BMI of the subject.

[ps2id id=’requirements’ target=”/]

REQUIREMENTS

Subjects:        Human

Apparatus:     Height scale

         Weighing scale

[ps2id id=’procedure’ target=”/]

PROCEDURE

BMI (metric units)

Measure the height of the subject in meters using the height scale. Record the reading. Weigh the subject using a weighing scale in kilograms and note the reading. Calculate the BMI using the formula BMI= weight/height².

BMI (Imperial units)

Measure the height of the subject in inches. Record the reading. Weigh the subject using a weighing scale in pounds. Multiply the result obtained by 703. Calculate the BMI using the formula BMI= (weight/height²)*703.³

[ps2id id=’conclusion’ target=”/]

CONCLUSION

The calculation of BMI helps in knowing the overall fat content of the body and is a tool used to assess the normal health of the subject.

Read more articles:

[ps2id id=’references’ target=”/][ps2id id=’1′ target=”/]

REFERENCES

1. En.m.wikepedia.org. Accessed on 26 March 2018.
   
2. www.calculator.net. Accessed on 26 March 2018.
   
3. Thecalculatorsite.com. Accessed on 26 March 2018.