Mapping Methods for Total Body Weight Measurement in Critically Ill Patients: A Scoping Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.20956/5t4vhk21Keywords:
body weight, critical illness, weights and measuresAbstract
Aims: This scoping review aimed to identify and map existing methods for measuring total body weight in critically ill patients.
Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted across seven databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Medline-OVID, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Scopus) on August 1, 2024, without publication-year restrictions. The terminology keywords: “Critical Illness,” “Intensive Care Units,” “Burn Units,” “Coronary Care Units,” “Respiratory Care Units,” “Critical Care,” “Weights and Measures,” “Ideal Body Weight,” “Body Weight,” “Body Size,” “Data Accuracy.” Eligible records were English-language original studies, validation studies, observational studies, quality-improvement projects, and pilot studies reporting total body weight measurement or estimation methods applicable to critically ill adults.
Results: Twelve studies were included. Four approaches were identified: 1) estimation methods, 2) anthropometric formulas, 3) technology-assisted techniques, and 4) tape measurement methods. The evidence for method performance varied. Visual estimation showed substantial errors, including errors greater than 10% in nearly half of the estimates in one ICU study. Anthropometric formulas showed moderate or population-specific agreement with the measured weights. Technology-assisted methods, including bed or hoist scales and 3D camera systems, generally provide more objective measurements or lower error but require equipment, calibration, and feasibility considerations. The PAWPER XL-MAC adult tape method showed a strong validation performance, with P20 of 96.0% and P10 of 71.3%, respectively.
Conclusion: Technology-assisted methods and standardized anthropometric or tape-based approaches appear to be more clinically useful for critically ill patients. However, their accuracy, validity, reliability, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness vary by setting. Further validation in diverse ICU populations is required before recommending a single, preferred method.
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