Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Positioning Client in Prone Position

1. Explain what you are going to do
2. Wash your hands
3. Provide privacy (close door, pull curtains)
4. Raise bed to convenient working height
5. Lock wheels on bed, or push bed against wall if there are no brakes
6. Lower rail on side where you are working
7. Lower client's head; remove pillows. Fold back top sheet
8. Ask client to move to side of bed nearest you. Assist client as needed
9. Raise side rail
10. Go to the other side of bed. Lower rail
11. Place one hand around client's farthest shoulder and your other hand around farthest hip. Roll client towards you, turning on side and then onto the abdomen. Turn the client's head to the side for comfort and ease in breathing. Arms are flexed on each side of head
12. Adjust pillow properly:
    1. Small pillow under head and neck
    2. Optional small pillow under abdomen
    3. Pillow under lower legs to relieve pressure on toes

13. make sure client is in good body alignment
14. Place bed in the lowest position ( raise rails if needed )
15. Wash your hands
16. Record what you have done and note to time for next turning (2 hrs)