Utah CNA Skills Practice Test

Protecting joints and keeping the body properly aligned is the key idea when you reposition someone. Pillows and wedges are used to support limbs and stabilize the trunk so the resident’s joints stay in a neutral, safe position and don’t twist or sag. This helps distribute pressure more evenly, reduces friction, and prevents contractures or misalignment over time.

Think of placing a pillow behind the back to maintain midline when turning to a side, a pillow between the knees to keep the hips and pelvis aligned, a small cushion under the head for comfortable neck support, and a support under the ankles or feet to keep them in a neutral position. These supports promote comfort, reduce the risk of skin breakdown where pressure points form, and help the resident maintain a stable posture during repositioning.

Choosing actions that make the resident uncomfortable or removing supports would undermine safety and proper alignment, which is why using pillows or wedges to protect joints and keep alignment is the correct approach.