Positioning in Lateral (Side-Lying) Position — Practice Checklist
Check each step as you complete it during practice. All 18 steps must be performed in the correct order. Use this checklist until the sequence is automatic.
Step-by-Step Procedure (18 steps)
- 1.
Wash hands.
- 2.
Identify the resident and explain the procedure.
- 3.
Raise the bed to a comfortable working height; lower the side rail on the side toward which you will turn the resident.
- 4.
Lower the head of the bed to flat.
- 5.
Ensure the resident is in the center of the bed.
- 6.
Cross the resident's far arm across their chest.
- 7.
Cross the resident's far leg over the near leg.
- 8.
Place one hand on the resident's far shoulder and the other on the hip/thigh.
- 9.
Roll the resident toward you onto their side, using a smooth, controlled movement.
- 10.
Place a pillow under the resident's head to maintain spinal alignment.
- 11.
Place a pillow between the resident's knees and ankles to prevent pressure between bony prominences.
- 12.
Position a pillow behind the resident's back for support and to prevent rolling.
- 13.
Flex the top arm slightly and support it with a pillow.
- 14.
Ensure the resident's spine is in a straight line from head to tailbone.
- 15.
Raise the side rail on the side the resident is facing; ensure the opposite rail is also up.
- 16.
Lower the bed to the lowest position.
- 17.
Place the call light within reach.
- 18.
Wash hands and document the position and time.
Evaluator Pass Criteria (5 checkpoints)
All of these must be observed for you to pass this skill.
Resident is turned safely and in proper lateral alignment.
Pillow is placed between the knees and ankles.
Pillow is placed behind the back for support.
Head is supported with a pillow aligned with the spine.
Side rails are raised appropriately before leaving.
Critical Mistakes — Avoid These
- ⚠
Forgetting the pillow between the knees — this is critical for pressure relief and is frequently missed.
- ⚠
Not placing a support pillow behind the back — the resident can roll supine.
- ⚠
Rolling the resident away from you rather than toward you — this decreases control.
- ⚠
Failing to check that the spine remains in alignment.
- ⚠
Not raising side rails before leaving.
Also prep for the written exam
501 free NNAAP practice questions with instant explanations.
Take the Practice Test →