Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Raising Client's Head and Shoulders

  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 of bed where you are working
  7. Lower head of bed, remove pillows. Fold back top sheet
  8. Stand facing bed, feet about 12 inches apart
  9. Ask client to place near(closest) arm under your near(closest) arm and shoulder
  10. Place your near(closest) arm under client's arm and shoulder. Your hand should reach to the clients shoulder
  11. Slip your farthest arm under client's neck and shoulders
  12. On a count of three, shift your weight from the foot nearest to head of bed to your other foot. At the same time, rock client to a semi-sitting position
  13. Support client with arm locked under shoulder, use other arm to remove or readjust pillow
  14. Assist client to lie back on bed using locked arms and support neck and shoulders as before
  15. Make sure client is safe and comfortable
  16. Replace bed to the lowest position and wash hands