Which item is a positioning technique used to promote safe patient transfers?

• A. Supine
• B. Prone
• C. Trochanter roll
• D. Tracheostomy tube

Answer: (C)

Maintaining proper body alignment with positioning aids is essential for safe transfers. A trochanter roll serves as a positioning technique by preventing the hips from rotating outward when a patient lies on their back. Placed along the outer hip and upper thigh, it keeps the pelvis in neutral alignment, making it easier for staff to transfer the patient to a chair or stand and reducing the risk of hip dislocation, skin shear, or joint strain during movement.

Supine and prone describe body positions, not techniques to control alignment during transfers. A tracheostomy tube is an airway device and does not influence how the body is positioned for safe transfers.