How should the nurse measure the length of a 14-month-old child?

• A. Side-lying position
• B. Prone recumbent position
• C. Supine recumbent position
• D. Standing height.

Answer: (C)

Measuring length in a 14-month-old is done with the child lying down in a supine position on a length board. This recumbent length method provides a straight, head-to-toe measurement when standing is not feasible due to limited balance and cooperation at this age. Place the child flat, with the head in a neutral position and the legs fully extended against the footboard, so the measurement reflects true length from the top of the head to the heel. The other positions don’t yield an accurate, comparable length: side-lying or prone recumbent positions don’t align the body for a straight measurement, and standing height is reserved for children who can stand unassisted, typically older than this age.