Supine Position

Question 1

List the steps for the Supine Position procedure.

Answer 1

1. Do the initial steps procedure.
2. Lower the head of the bed.
3. Move the resident to the head of the bed if necessary.
4. Position the resident flat on their back with legs slightly apart.
5. Align the resident’s shoulders and hips.
6. Use supportive padding and/or float heels, if necessary.
7. Do the final steps procedure.

Question 2

What is the rationale for step “2. Lower the head of the bed.”?

Answer 2

When the bed is flat, the resident can be moved without working against gravity.

Question 3

What is the rationale for step “3. Move the resident to the head of the bed if necessary.”?

Answer 3

Places the resident in the proper position in the bed.

Question 4

What is the rationale for step “4. Position the resident flat on their back with legs slightly apart.”?

Answer 4

Prevents friction in the thigh area.

Question 5

What is the rationale for step “5. Align the resident’s shoulders and hips.”?

Answer 5

Reduces stress to the spine.

Question 6

What is the rationale for step “6. Use supportive padding and/or float heels, if necessary.”?

Answer 6

Maintains position, prevents friction, and reduces pressure on bony prominences. Padding may be used under neck, shoulders, arms, hands, ankles, and lower back. Never use padding under knees, unless directed by the nurse, as it may restrict blood flow to the lower legs.