Chapter 13 Assisting with Mobility 397 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Prone Position • The patient is lying face down, fl at on the abdomen (Figure 13.34). • The patient’s legs are extended and his head is to one side. • The patient’s arms are bent upward at the elbows or extended down at the sides. • The patient’s head and abdomen may be supported with pillows, if preferred. • A pillow may also be placed under the patient’s lower legs to reduce pressure on the toes, if necessary. The patient’s feet may also hang off the bed to relieve pressure on the toes. Lateral Position • The patient is lying on her left side, called left lateral, or right side, called right lateral (Figure 13.35). • Support the patient’s head with a pillow and place a pillow against her back to maintain the position. • To relieve pressure on the back, the patient’s upper leg and hip is bent at the knee. • You may place a pillow between the patient’s knees for protection and alignment. • The patient’s lower arm should be fl exed. You may place a small pillow under the arm. Sims’ Position • Sims’ position is a partly left-side lying and partly prone-lying position (Figure 13.36). • Support the patient’s head and shoulder with a pillow. • The patient’s left leg and arm are extended and the right leg and arm are fl exed. • The patient’s left arm rests behind him. • The fl exed right leg is supported with a pillow. • The fl exed right hand and arm are supported with a pillow. ©Body Scientific International Figure 13.34 Prone position ©Body Scientific International Figure 13.35 Lateral position ©Body Scientific International Figure 13.36 Sims’ position Think It Through Think It Through Positioning patients helps them relax and promotes sleep. Think about what position helps you relax and sleep. You may also find that certain bedding or special pillows help you feel comfortable. In addition, you may reduce light, turn off the radio or television, or play soothing music. What more could you do to help a patient feel more comfortable?