Weighing a Diaper

The reasons incontinence briefs may need to be weighed for learners that require their output monitored. The instructional steps assist the registered nurse working under the auspices of the school or program in professional judgement and accountability of delegation. Additional steps may be required depending on the learner’s health needs.

Steps

1. Prepare for procedure
   1. Gather needed supplies and place on a clean surface
   2. Wash hands and put on gloves
2. Turn on scale
   1. Ensure that the scale readout is zero
3. Determine weight of a dry, clean diaper, if needed
   1. If weight of dry diaper is unknown, place a dry diaper on the scale
   2. Document the weight of a dry diaper
   3. Remove the dry diaper from the scale
   4. Confirm that the scale readout returns to zero
4. Weigh soiled diaper
   1. Ensure that there are no wipes in the diaper
   2. Document weight of the soiled diaper
5. Remove soiled diaper and dispose of the diaper
6. Apply new gloves and clean the scale
7. Remove gloves and wash hands
8. Document date, time, amount, color, consistency if applicable, any odor and other
   1. remember to subtract the weight of the dry diaper from the weight of the soiled diaper
   2. update school nurse as directed or needed