Positioning & Career Profiling Flashcards
Used to examine spine or back
prone
Used to facilitate breathing
Fowlers
Used for vaginal exams
lithotomy
The patient is lying flat on their back
horizontal recumbent (supine)
The patient is in circulatory shock
Trendelenburg
Straps are used to secure position
jackknife
This position is similar to the lithotomy, however, it has no straps
dorsal recumbent
The patient is lying on their left side and is tilted downward
Sims
alignment
how the head, shoulders, spine, hips, knees, and ankles relate and line up with each other
incontinent
unable to control excretions
contracture
the shortening of a muscle resulting in a permanent extension of a joint caused by lack of movement
What are three ways to prevent pressure ulcers?
providing good skincare, frequent turning and positioning to avoid pressure on irritated areas, and prompt cleaning of urine and feces
What three areas are prone to pressure ulcers?
heels, elbows, hips, and spine base (bony areas)
How often should patients be turned?
every 2 hours
What are three benefits to turning a patient?
improves circulation, provides muscle exercise, and decreases pulmonary congestion
dangling position
patients dangle their legs in a sitting position before moving to a standing positions
foot drop
inability to raise the front part of the foot; common contracture; prevented by maintaining foot at a right angle
What is the difference between the four levels of a pressure ulcer?
1: discoloration
2: abrasions, bruises, or open sores
3: deep open crater
4: damage extends into muscle, tendon, and bone tissues
The cane should be level with the top of the femur.
True
The patient should lift their walker and make their front legs even with their toes.
False; back legs
A medical professional should walk on the unaffected side of a patient.
False; affected side
How should crutches be adjusted?
Crutches should be adjusted 2-3 inches from the axillary area (armpit) to prevent nerve damage
What should be checked on walkers?
The rubber bottom should be checked on walkers.
A 75-year-old female has just recovered from CVA (stroke), is weak on the left side, and needs a full evaluation.
Physical Therapist
