The most sensitive indicator of long-term nutritional status in a child is
A) weight.
B) height.
C) head circumference.
D) fusion of growth plates.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Height is the most sensitive indicator of long-term nutritional status in a child because it reflects chronic nutritional status and growth patterns over time, unlike weight which can fluctuate more rapidly with short-term changes in nutritional intake or health status. Head circumference is a critical measure in the early years, reflecting brain growth, but it does not directly indicate nutritional status over the long term. Fusion of growth plates occurs in late adolescence and reflects the end of growth, not nutritional status per se.

The Most Sensitive Indicator of Long-Term Nutritional Status in a Child