Height is a critical vital sign that assists nurses in evaluating a patient's overall health status. It is essential for:
Calculating body mass index (BMI) for assessing whether a patient is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. Determining appropriate medication dosages, especially in pediatric and geriatric patients where dosages are often based on body surface area. Assessing growth and development in children and adolescents. Monitoring the risk of conditions like osteoporosis, which can lead to height loss.