CNA Skills #4 : Position the Resident in a Side-Lying (Lateral) Position

1. Perform "opening procedure" (includes hand hygiene).
2. Use good body mechanics : raise level of bed, bend knees, spread feet apart.
3. Safely move the supine resident to the side (edge) of bed in 3-segments.
4. Prepare arms/arm : Cross resident's arms over chest or place correct arm in "stop-sign" position.
5. Cross ankles or bend the knee of the upper (top) leg.
6. Be sure side rail is up on the side resident is turned towards.
7. Place one hand on shoulder, the other on hip, and "log-roll" turn resident onto side; moved the body safely, gently, naturally as a unit, avoiding force/pressure to spine, limbs and joints.
8. Support resident's back by tucking a pillow, folded lengthwise, behind back.
9. Support resident's top arm with a pillow, folded lengthwise, behind back.
10. Place resident's top leg slightly forward, with knee bent; support top leg with a pillow.
11. Be sure that the top leg/foot does not rest on (or rub) the lower leg/foot.
12. Stand at FOB to see if resident's body is properly aligned.
13. Resident should not be lying on his/her arm or shoulder.
14. Adjust pillow to cradle/support resident's head/face comfortably.
15. Perform "closing procedure" (includes hand hygiene).