Positioning in Fowler's Position — Practice Checklist

Step-by-Step Procedure (14 steps)

1. 1.

   Wash hands.

2. 2.

   Identify the resident and explain the procedure.

3. 3.

   Raise the bed to a comfortable working height.

4. 4.

   Lower the head of the bed to flat.

5. 5.

   Position the resident on their back (supine) in the center of the bed.

6. 6.

   Raise the head of the bed to 45–60 degrees for semi-Fowler's, or 60–90 degrees for high Fowler's.

7. 7.

   Place a pillow behind the head and shoulders for comfort.

8. 8.

   Flex the knees slightly by raising the knee gatch (foot portion of the bed) or placing a small pillow under the knees — this prevents the resident from sliding down.

9. 9.

   Support the arms by placing pillows under the forearms if needed.

10. 10.

    Ensure the resident's spine is aligned and the body is not twisted.

11. 11.

    Ensure the call light is within reach.

12. 12.

    Lower the bed to the lowest position.

13. 13.

    Raise the appropriate side rails.

14. 14.

    Wash hands and document the position.

Evaluator Pass Criteria (5 checkpoints)

All of these must be observed for you to pass this skill.

• Head of bed is elevated to the correct angle for Fowler's (45–90 degrees).

• Resident is centered and in proper body alignment.

• Knees are slightly flexed to prevent sliding.

• Call light is within reach before leaving.

• Bed is lowered to the lowest position.

Critical Mistakes — Avoid These

• ⚠

  Not elevating the bed to the full required angle — semi-Fowler's is 30–45 degrees, Fowler's is 45–60 degrees, high Fowler's is 60–90 degrees.

• ⚠

  Failing to flex the knees, causing the resident to slide down.

• ⚠

  Leaving the resident off-center — spinal alignment must be maintained in Fowler's.

• ⚠

  Not placing a pillow behind the head.

• ⚠

  Leaving without ensuring the call light is within reach.