Height is important in spirometry as it is part of the reference values which your patients results will be compared to. Therefore if the incorrect height is entered then the result can be affected. Height should be measured to the nearest mm, according the 2019 ATS update in spirometry.
Do’s and Dont’s
When measuring the person’s height, keep the below do’s and don’ts in mind to get the most accurate measurement.
| Do’s | Dont’s |
|---|---|
| Stand straight with heels together without shoes | Self-reported height |
| Actively stretch to a fully erect position | Measuring with shoes on |
| Look straight ahead | Hair accessories not removed |
| Compress the hair as much as possible with the horizontal arm remaining at 90 degrees | Equipment not properly installed |
| Height should be recorded to the closest mm | Knees bent |
| Head out of position |