In end-of-life care, during ELC, how should a patient be positioned to prevent complications?

In end-of-life care, positioning a patient correctly is crucial to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers, discomfort, and impaired circulation. Bony prominences are the areas of the body where the bone is close to the skin, and these include locations like the heels, sacrum, elbows, and shoulders.

When a patient is positioned in a way that avoids direct pressure on these bony prominences, the risk of developing pressure sores is significantly reduced. For instance, utilizing appropriate support devices like cushions or specialized mattresses can help alleviate pressure in these critical areas while providing necessary support in other regions, thus ensuring the patient's comfort and dignity during this sensitive time.

Other options, such as applying pressure under the arms, on the abdomen, or on the legs, can lead to discomfort and increase the likelihood of complications such as skin breakdown or restricted blood flow. Therefore, the choice to focus on preventing pressure on bony prominences is essential for both comfort and the prevention of further health complications in end-of-life care.