For a back rub, which position should the resident be placed?

• A. Supine on back
• B. Lateral or prone position
• C. Standing
• D. Sitting

Answer: (B)

The move that best supports giving a back rub is placing the resident in a position that makes the back accessible and the body well aligned. When someone is lying on their abdomen (prone) or on their side (lateral), the back is exposed and you can use long, smooth strokes along the back muscles with proper hand placement. These positions also help protect joints and maintain comfort, since the head, neck, and spine can be supported with pillows as needed.

Standing or sitting would not provide the right access to the back and can make it hard to perform the massage safely and effectively. Lying on the back (supine) isn’t ideal for a back rub because the back isn’t as readily exposed for massage, whereas turning to the side or lying face down gives direct access to the muscles of the back.