When placing a client in a side-lying position, which practice supports safety and privacy?

• A. Raise the head of the bed high and roll the client.
• B. Move the client with no privacy and leave the bed uncluttered.
• C. Provide privacy, lower the head of the bed, and roll the client as a single unit.
• D. Move the client quickly without securing limbs.

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is to keep the resident safe and respected while turning to the side. Lowering the head of the bed helps maintain an open airway and prevents the resident from sliding down as you move, which supports proper body alignment during the turn. Providing privacy by draping and closing curtains protects dignity and reduces exposure. Rolling the resident as a single unit preserves spinal alignment and minimizes twisting of the neck, shoulders, and hips, which lowers the risk of injury to both the resident and the caregiver.

In practice, you’d also support the head with a pillow, and a pillow between the legs or behind the back as needed for comfort and alignment. Moving quickly or without securing limbs increases the chance of injury, and not providing privacy or raising the bed unnecessarily can compromise safety and dignity.