Head circumference is commonly referred to as OFC - occipital
frontal circumference. It is generally the last anthropometric parameter
to be affected by nutritional status.
Equipment:
Use a flexible, non-stretchable measuring tape.
Plastic insertion tapes are available; they should be cleaned between
uses. Paper tapes are also available. If paper tapes are used, care
should be taken not to crease the paper.
Drawing from: Nardella M, et al. Nutrition Interventions
for Children with Special Health Care Needs. WA State DOH, 2001.
Child and Positioning:
The child should be standing or sitting in the lap of his/her caregiver.
Remove any barrettes or braids in the child's hair.
Measurement:
Place the measuring tape around the child's head:
just above his/her eyebrows, ears, and around the occipit (the prominence
at the back of the head). Pull the tape snugly. Repeat the measurement
until two measurements agree to 0.1 cm or 1/16 inch.
