Accuracy of weighing simulated infants with in-bed and freestanding scales while connected and disconnected to a ventilator.
OBJECTIVE
To develop an accurate method of weighing ventilated infants in the clinical setting.


METHODS
Two dolls that simulated ventilated infants were adapted to different weights ranging from 745 to 3,995 g.


METHODS
Four methods of weighing ventilated infants were evaluated. The study design used multiple clinical nurses, randomly chosen, to weigh the simulated infants. Freestanding and in-bed scales were used with a simulated ventilated infant being either connected or disconnected from the ventilator tubing for the procedure.


RESULTS
The mean weights of the simulated infants measured in the incubator, with or without the ventilator connected, had a mean difference of +/- 2 g from the gold standard. However, the mean weights of the simulated infants measured on the freestanding scales were 12 g < the gold standard of industry calibrated weights (P < 0.001). The measurement error was small both with and without the ventilator connected. This error was proportionally very small for weights over 1,500 g, but was increased for weights < 1,500 g.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of in-bed scales was the most accurate method of weighing simulated infants of all weight categories. This study shows the importance of a consistent and meticulous technique when weighing infants in intensive care. The accuracy of weights is enhanced with the use of in-bed scales, and this is particularly significant in infants less than 1,500 g.
Spence
Kaye
K
Department of Neonatology, Grace Neonatal Nursery, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Children's Hospital at Westmead, University of Western Sydney, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia. Kaye@chw.edu.au
Smith
Judith
J
Peat
Jennifer
J
D001835:Body Weight; D002138:Calibration; D015400:Clinical Nursing Research / Q000295:instrumentation; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008348:Manikins; D017283:Neonatal Nursing / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000451:nursing*; D014894:Weights and Measures