Which skill is used to reposition a resident into a lateral position safely?

• A. Positioning a Resident in Lateral Position.
• B. Transferring From Bed to Chair Using a Gait Belt.
• C. Performing a Partial Bed Bath (Upper Body).
• D. Providing Back Rub/Massage.

Answer: (A)

Safe repositioning into a lateral position involves turning the resident to the side while keeping the body in proper alignment and protecting the skin. The skill focused on this task is the one that instructs you to place the resident into a side-lying position with care for posture, breathing, and comfort. When performing it, you prepare the space and resident, use a safe turning technique (often with a draw sheet or assistive device) to avoid twisting the spine or causing shear, and support key points with pillows or cushions—under the head, behind the back, between the knees, and possibly under the upper arm. This alignment helps prevent pressure injuries, maintains airway and circulation, and makes it easier to provide care.

The other activities involve different goals: transferring to a chair uses a gait belt and different mechanics, a partial bed bath is for hygiene, and a back massage is for comfort—none of these address repositioning the body to a side-lying posture.