What it means
The side-lying position, named for the side the person lies on (right or left lateral). It takes pressure off the back and sacrum, helps drain saliva from the mouth, and is used for comfort, sleep and some procedures. It differs from the Sims positionSIMZ puh-ZISH-unA side-lying position on the left side with the upper leg bent and the lower arm behind the body.Full entry , which is half on the side and half on the front.
For the nurse
Place pillows behind the back, between the knees and under the upper arm. Check the pressure points: ear, shoulder, hip, knee and ankle.
At a glance
| Also written | side-lying position |
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Related terms
supine
Lying flat on the back, face up.
prone
Lying flat on the stomach, face down.
Sims position
A side-lying position on the left side with the upper leg bent and the lower arm behind the body.
pressure injury
Damage to the skin and the tissue beneath it from pressure, or pressure with shear, usually over a bony area or under a device.