Before weighing a patient on a mechanical scale, what action should the technician take?

Before weighing a patient on a mechanical scale, it is essential to verify that the scale is balanced and the weights are set to zero. This action is crucial because an uncalibrated scale can provide inaccurate readings, leading to potential errors in assessing the patient's weight. Ensuring that the scale is balanced means that no additional weight is recorded aside from that of the patient, which is necessary to obtain a true measurement.

Starting with a properly balanced scale guarantees that any subsequent measurements reflect the actual weight of the individual without the influence of prior adjustments or imbalances. This foundational step ensures that the technician can track weight changes accurately over time, which is vital for monitoring patients' health, especially in cases involving dietary changes, medication adjustments, or overall health assessments.

While checking previous measurements and calibrating the scale can be factors to consider for accuracy, they do not replace the critical importance of ensuring the scale is balanced before use. Additionally, while the removal of clothing can provide a more accurate weight, it is not a standardized requirement and may not always be feasible or necessary depending on clinical protocols or patient comfort.