Abdominal girth is the circumferential measurement of the abdomen at a specific anatomical point, typically at the level of the umbilicus, using a flexible measuring tape. It provides a baseline and helps track changes over time.
Indications
| Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|
| Monitor for abdominal distension | In neonates at risk for NEC or feeding intolerance |
| Track fluid retention or ascites | In liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, or heart failure |
| Evaluate postoperative recovery | After abdominal surgery or bowel resection |
| Assess response to treatment | In cases of constipation, obstruction, or peritonitis |
Preparation
- Explain the procedure to the child and the family, including the rationale for performing the procedure and frequency.
- Explain to the child that small pen marks will be made on the abdomen.
- Assure the child that these marks are not permanent and will wash off.
- If age appropriate, allow the child to look at and touch the measuring tape to be used.
- Let the child measure the examiner’s wrist or other object. Give the child time to ask questions immediately before the procedure
Procedure
- Determine previous abdominal measurements.
- Hand washing
- Auscultate bowel sounds with sthescope before measuring the abdominal girth.
- The preferred position is supine with child’s knees flexed or for an infant, hold the legs flexed at the knees and hips.
- Remove or move a side clothing that interferes with the ability to apply the measuring tape around the abdomen.
- Do not measure over the clothing.
- Visualize the child’s abdomen to elevate for symmetry contour peristalsis and abnormalities such as distension or a mass.
- Place the palm under the child’s wrist and slide tape through under you on hand.
- If serial measurements are to be made, mark the exact area on either side of umbilicus of the top edge and bottom of tape with a pen marker.
- Place a tape snugely across umbilicus but not to clinching the waistline.
- Ensure that the measuring tape is placed underneath the child lying flat for an accurate measurement.
- Measure the recording nearest full millimeter level.
Post procedure Care
- Evaluate previous assessments and note any changes in abdomen, including girth, firmness, color, and bowel sounds.
- Record abdominal girth, date and time of measurement, and factors pertinent to abdominal assessment.
- Document any abdominal pain reported by child or assessed during girth measurement.
- Inform physician or nurse practitioner of any significant changes.
General Instructions
- Measure girth with the child in the same position each time.
- If serial measurements are to be made, mark exact area on either side of umbilicus of top edge and bottom edge of tape with a pen marker.
- Measure girth directly above the umbilicus in infants with umbilical arterial or venous catheters.
- If serial measurements are to be completed and the child is uncomfortable with movement, the tape may be left in place under the child for the next measurement.
- Ensure that the tape is lying flat under the child.
- If the child wears diapers, check the tape for soiling by urine or stool at every diaper change.
Special Considerations
- Always measure in the same position and location each time.
- Avoid measuring over diapers or clothing.
- In infants with umbilical catheters, measure above the umbilicus.
- Monitor for firmness, discoloration, or asymmetry during assessment.
- Document any pain, bowel changes, or abnormal findings.
REFERENCES
- Annamma Jacob, Rekha, Jhadav Sonali Tarachand: Clinical Nursing Procedures: The Art of Nursing Practice, 5th Edition, March 2023, Jaypee Publishers, ISBN-13: 978-9356961845 ISBN-10: 9356961840
- Omayalachi CON, Manual of Nursing Procedures and Practice, Vol 1, 3 Edition 2023, Published by Wolters Kluwer’s, ISBN: 978-9393553294
- Sandra Nettina, Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice, 11th Edition, January 2019, Published by Wolters Kluwer’s, ISBN-13:978-9388313285
- Marcia London, Ruth Bindler, Principles of Paediatric Nursing: Caring for Children, 8th Edition, 2023, Pearson Publications, ISBN-13: 9780136859840
- Ernstmeyer K, Christman E, editors. Nursing Fundamentals [Internet]. 2nd edition. Eau Claire (WI): Chippewa Valley Technical College; 2024. PART IV, NURSING PROCESS. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK610818/
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