An emaciated semiconscious bed bound patient does not remain in a side lying position and repeatedly turns onto her back, where she is developing a pressure area over her sacrum. The nurse should add to the nursing care plan to:
A) raise the knees to keep the patient from sliding down.
B) position the patient on her side and use protective wrist and vest devices to keep her from turning onto her back.
C) assist the patient to sit in a wheelchair for short periods before returning her to bed.
D) place the patient on her stomach (prone position) using a small pillow below her diaphragm.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The prone position is an excellent (but underused) position to take pressure off the sacral area. Raising the head and the knees of the patient interferes with venous return from the legs and puts a great deal of pressure on the sacrum. Use of a wheelchair for a semiconscious patient is not effective.

An Emaciated Semiconscious Bed Bound Patient Does Not Remain in a Side