Question

The nurse is evaluating the body alignment of a patient in the sitting position. Which observation by the nurse will indicate a normal finding?

a.The edge of the seat is in contact with the popliteal space.
b.Both feet are supported on the floor with ankles flexed.
c.The body weight is directly on the buttocks only.
d.The arms hang comfortably at the sides.

Answer 1

Proper body alignment in the sitting position includes both feet on the floor with ankles flexed, even weight distribution across the buttocks, and a relaxed posture where the arms hang comfortably at the sides. The edge of the seat should not press into the popliteal space for comfort and circulation.

The correct answer is options B.

Step-by-step explanation:

The evaluation of body alignment in a patient sitting position involves assessing posture to ensure the minimization of strain on the body and optimal physiological function. When a nurse is observing a patient in the sitting position for proper body alignment, a normal finding would include both feet being supported on the floor with ankles flexed, which implies that the feet are flat on the ground and the ankles are in a neutral position.

This supports the center of gravity being distributed evenly and contributes to a stable and balanced posture. Additionally, proper alignment would encompass the body weight being evenly distributed across both buttocks, the back straight, shoulders relaxed, and the arms hanging comfortably at the sides without tension. So, The correct answer is options B.