BOPDHB Patient Resources Hip and Knee joint replacement book - June 2016 | Page 54

At home Missionary Position – This is generally a comfortable position for either a male or female with a new hip. The female assumes the bottom position. If she has a new hip, she can bend her knees slightly with her feet on the bed. Pillows can be used to support the legs on the outside. If the male has a new hip, he can stretch his legs out behind him. He can place a pillow between his knees to keep his operative leg from crossing the midline of the body. He supports his weight with his arms. Face-To-Face Position – This position can be used for either a male or female. The person with the new joint is on the bottom and can recline on pillows propped behind the back. A female can bend her knees slightly with her feet on the bed. A male can put a pillow between his knees to keep the operative leg from crossing the midline of the body. Sitting Position – This position can be used for either a male or female. In all cases, the male sits on the chair with his knees pointing away from the midline of his body and his feet on the floor. The female sits on his lap. She must be able to have her feet planted on the floor, particularly if she has a new joint. She must avoid leaning too far forward to prevent the hip from bending more than 90 degrees. 52