Final answer:
When repositioning a patient, move the thumb from opposition back to the anatomical position and perform scapular retraction. Additionally, rotate the hand from a palm backward to palm forward position, and turn the foot to face the midline of the body or move the hand back to a palm backward position and direct the scapula upward.
Step-by-step explanation:
When turning and repositioning a patient, it is important to follow an appropriate pattern to ensure patient safety and comfort, as well as to maintain proper body mechanics for the caregiver.
The correct pattern typically includes moving the patient's thumb from opposition back to the anatomical position (next to the index finger). For the scapula, retraction involves a posterior motion, which can be thought of as pulling the shoulders back.
Other movements you might consider include rotating the hand from the palm backward position to the palm forward position, turning the foot so that the bottom of the foot faces the midline of the body, moving the hand from the palm forward position to the palm backward position, and directing the scapula in an upward direction.
Each of these actions corresponds to repositioning movements that might be applied in patient care in the context of physical therapy or nursing to prevent pressure ulcers and improve patient mobility.