Weight recorded (PAG)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Weight recorded (PAG)
Common name: Weight check Technical/Medical term: Body mass measurement
Summary
A weight recorded (PAG) procedure involves measuring a patient's body weight using a scale. This is a routine part of many medical visits to monitor a patient's health and detect any significant changes over time.
Purpose
The procedure helps in assessing the patient's overall health, identifying potential nutritional issues, and monitoring the effectiveness of treatments related to weight management. It is crucial for tracking conditions like obesity, malnutrition, and ensuring appropriate dosages for medications.
Indications
- Routine health check-ups
- Monitoring of weight-related conditions such as obesity or eating disorders
- Assessing treatment progress in weight loss or gain programs
- Pre-surgical evaluations to dose anesthesia properly
- Pediatric growth monitoring
Preparation
Patients typically do not require any special preparation for a weight check. Wearing light clothing and removing heavy accessories such as shoes, belts, or jackets will provide a more accurate measurement.
Procedure Description
- The patient steps onto a digital or mechanical scale.
- The healthcare professional ensures the patient stands still, with weight evenly distributed.
The weight reading is recorded and compared with previous measurements, if available.
Tools used: Digital or mechanical scale Anesthesia: None required
Duration
The procedure usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
Setting
Weight checks are conducted in various healthcare settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, doctor’s offices, and even at home, using personal scales.
Personnel
Usually performed by nurses, medical assistants, or other healthcare professionals as part of a routine examination.
Risks and Complications
This procedure carries negligible risks as it is non-invasive. The most significant concern would be inaccurate readings due to improper technique or faulty equipment, which can usually be managed by redoing the measurement.
Benefits
- Provides essential data for health assessments
- Helps tailor appropriate medical treatments
- Facilitates early detection of potential health issues
These benefits are immediate upon recording and tracking weight data accurately.
Recovery
No recovery time is needed as the procedure is non-invasive. Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
Alternatives
No direct alternatives for measuring body weight. However, body composition assessments like Body Mass Index (BMI) calculations, waist circumference measurements, and body fat analysis can provide additional context but do not replace the need for regular weight measurements.
Patient Experience
Patients typically find the procedure quick and painless. Discomfort may arise if the patient feels self-conscious about their weight. Healthcare providers should ensure a supportive and non-judgmental environment to alleviate any anxiety.
Pain management: Not applicable