CNA Skill: Reading Weight | Taught in the Course, Not on the Florida Exam

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Reading weight teaches you to accurately weigh a resident using a standing scale and properly read and record the measurement. We cover it in our online CNA course because you will use it constantly on the job, but it is not in the state-exam skill draw.

Equipment and Supplies Needed

• Standing scale (balance beam or digital)
• Paper and pen for recording
• Non-skid footwear for resident

Step-by-Step Procedure

Here is an abbreviated overview of how to perform Reading Weight on the job. Since this skill is not in the state-exam draw, no Prometric evaluator will score it, but supervisors and nurses will expect you to do it correctly.

1. Knock, enter, greet resident, introduce yourself, explain the procedure.
2. Provide privacy, wash hands, check ID.
3. Ensure the resident is wearing non-skid footwear.
4. Calibrate/zero the scale before use.
5. Assist the resident to stand on the scale safely.
6. Read the weight measurement accurately.
7. Assist the resident off the scale safely.
8. Record the weight on the appropriate form.
9. Ensure resident comfort, provide call light.

Common Mistakes with Reading Weight

Based on our experience preparing thousands of students for CNA work, here are the most common mistakes new CNAs make with this skill:

• Not zeroing the scale: Forgetting to calibrate or zero the scale before the resident steps on is a common miss.
• Incorrect reading: For balance beam scales, ensure both weights are properly balanced before reading.
• Safety lapses: Not ensuring the resident has non-skid footwear or not providing physical support.

On-the-Job Tips for Reading Weight

• Zero the scale first: even if it looks calibrated, check it every time.
• Stay close to the resident throughout for safety, especially when stepping on and off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is reading weight on the Florida CNA exam?

No. The state no longer requires this skill and it is not part of the random skill draw at the Prometric exam. We still teach it in our course because you will weigh residents regularly on the job.

Master This Skill with Video Demonstrations

Reading the steps is a great start, but watching the skill performed correctly makes a huge difference on test day. Our online CNA course includes:

• HD video demonstration of Reading Weight performed correctly
• Detailed narration explaining each checkpoint the evaluator looks for
• Practice scenarios and tips from experienced CNA instructors
• All 22 clinical skills plus written exam preparation

Start with a free course preview. See the quality of our video instruction before you commit.

All 22 CNA Clinical Skills

See the full CNA clinical skills guide, or jump to any skill: Handwashing · Mouth Care (Brushing Teeth) · Hand and Nail Care · Denture Care · Feeding a Resident · Taking a Pulse · Measuring Respirations · Changing an Occupied Bed · Dressing with One-Sided Weakness · Female Catheter Care · Bedpan Assistance · Emptying Urinary Drainage Bag · Female Perineal Care · Range of Motion (Lower Body) · Range of Motion (Elbow and Wrist) · Range of Motion (Shoulder) · Partial Bed Bath · Change of Position · Wheelchair Transfer · Foot Care · Ambulation with Gait Belt · Indirect Care.