Question

Which of the following is the best description of an abduction pillow?

a. A flat pillow used to position a post-op patient
b. A thick pillow positioned at the patient's side to support the upper extremities
c. A plastic-covered round pillow used to position a patient on her side.
d. A wedge-shaped pillow placed between the patient's legs to prevent them from moving
together.

Answer 1

An abduction pillow is a wedge-shaped pillow placed between a patient's legs to maintain proper hip alignment and prevent dislocation by keeping the legs apart after certain surgeries.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best description of an abduction pillow is option d: A wedge-shaped pillow placed between the patient's legs to prevent them from moving together. This type of pillow is used after certain surgeries, such as hip replacement procedures, to keep the hip in correct alignment and prevent dislocation by maintaining a safe distance between the legs. Abduction is a term that describes the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body. In medical settings, ensuring the proper position of the body, whether it is prone, supine, or in any other orientation, is crucial for patient recovery and health.