How should a resident be positioned to prevent spinal misalignment during side-lying?

• A. Keep neck and spine misaligned to adjust for comfort.
• B. Use pillows to prop only the head, leaving trunk unsupported.
• C. Align body in a straight line with pillows supporting head, trunk, and legs; keep neck and spine aligned.
• D. Lie on the back with hips elevated to side-lying.

Answer: (C)

Maintaining a straight, neutral spine is essential when side-lying to prevent spinal misalignment and reduce strain on the neck and back. To achieve this, position the resident on their side in a straight line from head through spine to hips. Use pillows to support head, trunk, and legs so the neck stays in a neutral position and the spine remains aligned. A pillow between the knees helps keep the hips and pelvis properly aligned and prevents twisting of the lower spine.

Propping only the head or leaving the trunk unsupported would let the spine flex, twist, or sag, creating misalignment. Lying on the back with hips elevated to mimic a side-lying position isn’t true side-lying and would not maintain the desired spinal alignment.