What should be placed between the legs to support hip alignment during hip precautions?

What should be placed between the legs to support hip alignment during hip precautions?

• A. A splint or pillow.
• B. A towel.
• C. A blanket.
• D. A sheet.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining hip alignment to prevent dislocation during hip precautions is achieved by placing a splint or pillow between the legs. This between-the-legs support keeps the hips abducted and prevents the legs from crossing or rotating inward, which could jeopardize the surgical hip or injured joint when moving or resting. A pillow or abduction device provides a stable barrier that stays in place, unlike a towel, blanket, or sheet, which can slip and fail to maintain the required position. Use the pillow between the knees when lying flat and when turning or repositioning to help keep the hips aligned.

Maintaining hip alignment to prevent dislocation during hip precautions is achieved by placing a splint or pillow between the legs. This between-the-legs support keeps the hips abducted and prevents the legs from crossing or rotating inward, which could jeopardize the surgical hip or injured joint when moving or resting. A pillow or abduction device provides a stable barrier that stays in place, unlike a towel, blanket, or sheet, which can slip and fail to maintain the required position. Use the pillow between the knees when lying flat and when turning or repositioning to help keep the hips aligned.