Proper positioning of a patient improves comfort and prevents the development of pressure ulcers and bedsores. To position a person in a safe way, use some of the tips below.
Make the bed properly
It is easier to position a person when a sheet is placed below them. Slide sheets are specially made for this purpose. It is produced from sliding materials.
A slide sheet can be produced from a regular top sheet referred to as a “draw sheet” when it is used for this purpose. A twin-sized top sheet can simply be folded in half.
Below are steps for correctly placing the sheet.
- The bed should be raised with controls. It should be raised to a level where there is no strain on the back.
- The bed should be made flat.
- The patient should be rolled to one side. A half rolled-up slide sheet should be placed against the back of the patient.
- The patient should be rolled onto the sheet, and the sheet spread under the person.
- Ensure the hips, shoulders, and head are on the sheet.
Look for a lift buddy
Another able-bodied person is needed for safe movement of a patient. This extra help can help you lift and position the patient. This extra support may come from a sibling, a spouse, an adult child, or a teen. You must be sure of the capability and ability of this person to perform this task.
Pulling the patient up in bed
Pulling the patient towards the head of the bed is the goal and not lifting. There should be a person on opposite sides of the bed. In addition to this,
- The draw sheet or slide sheet should be grabbed at the hips and upper back of the patient. This should be done on the beds closest side.
- One of your feet should be put forward in preparation for movement of the patient.
- The patient should be moved by shifting your weight to your front leg on the count of three. While doing this, the sheet should be pulled towards the head of the bed. To get the patient in the desired position, this may need to be repeated.
- If a loved one remains on his or her back, the foot of the bed should be raised enough for the knees to be bent. A pillow can be placed under the knees to give the person a bit of elevation so that he or she doesn’t slide. This can cause painful skin sores.
- Another pillow should be placed below the ankle to minimize pressure exerted on the heels.
- Pillows can be placed below the arms and head of the person for comfort. If the person is unable to communicate how comfortable he or she is, you’d have to use your judgement. If it doesn’t look comfortable, it is because it is not comfortable. Adjustments should be made until the desired level of comfort is attained.
Turning the patient on their side
Changing the position of the patient in bed is very important for avoiding bedsores. To achieve this, do the following.
- Maintain a standing position on the opposite side of the bed.
- The draw sheet should be grabbed on the opposite side after reaching over the person. The draw sheet should be pulled gently while the person supporting you pushes the hip and shoulder of the patient towards you.
- A foam wedge or pillow should be placed under the draw sheet at the back of the patient. The pillow should be positioned against the back to give the person a bit of height on the side.
- A specially made foam leg wedge or pillow should be placed between the knees of the person. With this extra comfort, the patient will become more comfortable because of proper alignment of the spine and less pressure on the ankles and knees.
- With another pillow, the arms of the patient should be propped.
Getting help
You can be trained by a nurse or physical therapist on how to safely position a person. If you still need clarity on some things, reach out to a healthcare professional.