Question

Following a stroke, a PT is giving a 62-year-old patient education about positioning in bed. Which is the BEST position to place the lower extremity when lying in supine?

A. Pelvic retracted, knee in extension, ankle in neutral with nothing against soles of feet
B. Pelvic protracted, knee on small towel roll, ankle in neutral with nothing against soles of feet
C. Pelvic retracted, knee on small towel, ankle on small towel roll with support against soles of feet
D. Pelvic protracted, knee in extension, ankle in neutral with support against soles of feet

Answer 1

The best position for a patient lying supine after a stroke is pelvic retraction, knee supported by a small towel roll, and ankle in neutral with support against the soles to encourage proper alignment and recovery.

Step-by-step explanation:

Following a stroke, positioning in bed is crucial to prevent complications such as muscle contractures and pressure ulcers.

When lying supine, or face up, the best position for the lower extremity is to have the pelvis retracted, the knee resting on a small towel roll (to prevent knee hyperextension), and the ankle in a neutral position with support against the soles of the feet (to prevent foot drop).

This position helps maintain proper alignment and muscle length, which can promote recovery and function in patients post-stroke. Thus, the best answer to the question is C. Pelvic retracted, knee on small towel, ankle on small towel roll with support against soles of feet.