Skip to main content
Print this sectionPrint this section

Newborn Measurement guide

- Growth Measurements

Growth Measurements (Weight – Length – Head Circumference)

Purpose:
To assess the appropriateness of weight, length, and head circumference in relation to the neonate’s gestational age, as well as to monitor normal growth and detect any changes.


Work Procedures

First: Neonatal Weight Measurement

  • Weight is measured upon admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), then measured daily at a fixed time, preferably before feeding.

Equipment:

  • Neonatal scale
  • Clean towel
  • Clean sheet
  • Large cotton piece
  • 70% ethyl alcohol
  • Waste bin with red bag

Steps:

  • Perform routine hand hygiene.
  • Clean the scale using cotton soaked with alcohol.
  • Place a cotton towel on the scale to prevent the neonate from feeling cold.
  • Zero the scale to eliminate the weight of the sheet.
  • Remove the diaper and any clothing, wrap the neonate in a clean sheet, and carry the neonate toward the scale (if the scale is fixed), or move the scale next to the incubator or crib (if movable).
  • Gently place the neonate on the scale.
  • Keep the hand close to the neonate without touching.
  • Record the accurate weight reading.
  • Return the neonate to the crib and reapply the diaper or clothing worn prior to weighing.
  • Clean the scale after use and return it to its place.
  • Perform routine hand hygiene.
  • Document the weight in the neonate’s chart and inform the physician of any significant weight changes.

Note:
The normal birth weight for full-term neonates ranges from 2700 to 3850 grams.

Important Points When Measuring Neonatal Weight:

  • Ensure the scale is zeroed.
  • Place the scale on a stable, horizontal surface.
  • Ensure the neonate is calm, with feet not touching any surface.
  • Weigh the neonate once daily at a fixed morning time before feeding.
    • If the admission weight is less than 1000 g, weight is measured twice daily (morning and evening).
  • Record the weight accurately in the neonate’s chart and growth chart.
  • Never leave the neonate unattended on the scale; return immediately to the crib.
  • Reweigh if there is a significant discrepancy from the previous measurement and notify the physician of any major changes.


Second: Head Circumference Measurement

  • Measured upon admission to the NICU, then weekly on a fixed day (e.g., every Saturday).
  • In cases of intracranial hemorrhage, hydrocephalus, or birth asphyxia, head circumference is measured daily.

Equipment:

  • Measuring tape
  • Cotton pieces moistened with 70% ethyl alcohol
  • Waste bin with red bag

Steps:

  • Perform routine hand hygiene.
  • Disinfect the measuring tape using an alcohol swab.
  • Measure the head circumference starting from the most prominent occipital point, passing above the auricles, to the midpoint of the forehead (1 cm above the eyebrows).
  • Disinfect the measuring tape after use and return it to its place.
  • Perform routine hand hygiene.
  • Document the head circumference in the neonate’s chart and inform the physician of any significant changes.

Note:
Normal head circumference for a full-term neonate ranges from 33 to 37 cm.


Third: Length Measurement

  • Measured upon admission to the NICU, then weekly on a fixed day (e.g., every Saturday).

Equipment:

  • Measuring tape or graduated measuring board
  • Cotton pieces moistened with 70% ethyl alcohol
  • Clean towel
  • Waste bin with red bag

Steps:

  • Perform routine hand hygiene.
  • Place a cotton towel on the measuring board to prevent cold exposure.
  • Place the neonate supine with the body fully extended.
  • Position the head straight and perpendicular to the fixed headboard, centered properly.
  • Ensure the head, back, thighs, and heels are in contact with the measuring surface without bending.
  • Ensure the feet are perpendicular and resting firmly against the movable footboard.
  • If a measuring board is unavailable, measure length using a measuring tape following the same steps, after disinfecting the tape with alcohol.
  • Disinfect the measuring tape after use and return it to its place.
  • Perform routine hand hygiene.
  • Document the length in the neonate’s chart.

Note:
Normal neonatal length generally ranges between 47.5 and 53.5 cm.

Responsible:

  • Nursing staff.