CNA Certification (Written Exam)Restorative SkillsHard
A resident who is bed-bound frequently adducts their hips, leading to potential skin breakdown between their knees. Which assistive device is most appropriate to prevent this adduction and protect the skin?
- AA hand roll
- BA trochanter roll
- CA foot drop splint
- DAn abduction pillow
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. An abduction pillow
An abduction pillow is specifically designed to keep the hips abducted (moved away from the midline) and prevent the knees from coming together. This device is ideal for preventing skin breakdown between the knees caused by frequent adduction and for maintaining proper hip alignment.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A hand roll is used to prevent contractures of the fingers and thumb, not related to hip positioning.
- B. A trochanter roll is placed alongside the hips to prevent external rotation of the hips and legs, not adduction.
- C. A foot drop splint is used to prevent plantar flexion (foot drop) and keep the foot in a neutral position, not for hip adduction.
Abduction Pillow
A wedge-shaped pillow placed between the legs to maintain hip abduction and prevent knees from touching, which is crucial for preventing skin breakdown and maintaining hip alignment.
- Prevents hip adduction.
- Reduces skin-to-skin friction between knees/thighs.
- Often used post-hip surgery or for neurological conditions.
Memory trick: Abduction pillow: AB-ducts the legs, keeps skin intact.