In the first 24 hours after a lower limb amputation, which positioning is recommended?

• A. Do Not Elevate The Residual Limb; Use Pillows, Elevate Foot Of Bed, And Prone 20-30 Minutes Twice Daily
• B. Elevate The Residual Limb On Pillows
• C. Keep The Limb Elevated With The Head Of Bed At 60 Degrees
• D. Keep The Patient In A Supine Position With Leg Extended

Answer: (A)

Early post-op positioning after a lower-limb amputation centers on preventing hip flexion contractures whileManaging edema. Keeping the residual limb in a non-elevated, neutral position helps preserve hip extension and makes future prosthesis fitting more feasible. Requiring the patient to lie prone for short periods (about 20–30 minutes) twice daily stretches the hip flexors, counteracting contracture formation. Using pillows to support the rest of the body and modestly elevating the bed’s foot end aids venous return and edema control without lifting the stump itself. This combination protects joint mobility and promotes readiness for rehabilitation, rather than placing the residual limb in positions that encourage flexion contractures or impede prosthetic fitting.