Which pillow placement correctly supports the resident in a side-lying position?

Which pillow placement correctly supports the resident in a side-lying position?

• A. Pillow under the back, between the legs, and under the arm
• B. Pillow under the head only
• C. Pillow between the arms, not under the back
• D. No pillows

Answer: (A)

In side-lying, you want pillows that keep the spine aligned and reduce pressure on the hips, shoulders, and arms. A pillow under the back helps stabilize the torso so the resident doesn’t roll onto the front or back, supporting a straight spine. A pillow between the legs keeps the hips and knees aligned and reduces friction between the limbs, which helps prevent strain and pressure injuries. A pillow under the top arm supports the shoulder and prevents the arm from pulling forward, which can cause strain or nerve compression. Placing only a pillow under the head doesn’t address trunk or hip alignment and can leave pressure points unsupported. A pillow between the arms without back or leg support leaves the torso unstable and can lead to poor alignment. Not using pillows at all leaves several pressure points unprotected and increases the risk of discomfort or injury. That combination—back, between the legs, and under the arm—provides the most comprehensive support for a safe, comfortable side-lying position.

In side-lying, you want pillows that keep the spine aligned and reduce pressure on the hips, shoulders, and arms. A pillow under the back helps stabilize the torso so the resident doesn’t roll onto the front or back, supporting a straight spine. A pillow between the legs keeps the hips and knees aligned and reduces friction between the limbs, which helps prevent strain and pressure injuries. A pillow under the top arm supports the shoulder and prevents the arm from pulling forward, which can cause strain or nerve compression.

Placing only a pillow under the head doesn’t address trunk or hip alignment and can leave pressure points unsupported. A pillow between the arms without back or leg support leaves the torso unstable and can lead to poor alignment. Not using pillows at all leaves several pressure points unprotected and increases the risk of discomfort or injury. That combination—back, between the legs, and under the arm—provides the most comprehensive support for a safe, comfortable side-lying position.