The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with an ischemic stroke and knows that effective positioning of the patient is important. Which of the following should be integrated into the patient's plan of care?

Question

A) The patient's hip joint should be maintained in a flexed position.
B) The patient should be in a supine position unless ambulating.
C) The patient should be placed in a prone position for 15 to 30 minutes several times a day.
D) The patient should be placed in a Trendelenberg position two to three times daily to promote cerebral perfusion.

Answer 1

Ans: C
Feedback:
If possible, the patient is placed in a prone position for 15 to 30 minutes several times a day. A small pillow or a support is placed under the pelvis, extending from the level of the umbilicus to the upper third of the thigh. This helps to promote hyperextension of the hip joints, which is essential for normal gait, and helps prevent knee and hip flexion contractures. The hip joints should not be maintained in flexion and the Trendelenberg position is not indicated.