Arizona Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Test

What does the lateral position refer to?

1. Lying on the abdomen

2. Lying on one side

3. Flat on the back

4. Sitting at a 90-degree angle

The correct answer is: Lying on one side

The lateral position refers to lying on one side of the body. This position can be beneficial for various reasons, such as improving circulation, comfort, and facilitating breathing. It is often used in healthcare settings to prevent pressure ulcers and to provide optimal positioning for patients who may have difficulty lying flat or when certain medical conditions are present. In contrast, the other options describe different body positions: lying on the abdomen refers to the prone position, lying flat on the back describes the supine position, and sitting at a 90-degree angle pertains to an upright sitting position. Understanding body positioning is essential for CNAs to provide proper care and support for their patients.