The nursing assistant is caring for a resident with a diagnosis of chronic lung disease experiencing pain with a pressure ulcer on their coccyx. What is the best position for the nursing assistant place the resident to promote comfort?

Question

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The resident has both a chronic lung condition that may restrict lung expansion and a painful pressure ulcer on the coccyx (tail bone). The best position to help the resident with both conditions is the Sims position with the head of the bed elevated for the resident's comfort. High Fowlers will help with breathing but increase pressure on the painful skin breakdown and could increase the damage to that area. Prone position would decrease pressure on the painful ulcer but drastically limit chest expansion, making it difficult for the resident to breathe. Dorsal recumbent or supine position is lying flat and increases the pressure on the ulceration of the skin and decreases chest expansion.

The Nursing Assistant Is Caring for a Resident with a Diagnosis