Implement Positional Therapy to Prevent Supine Sleeping

Positional therapy prevents the collapse of the tongue and soft palate by keeping the sleeper in a lateral position throughout the night. Follow these steps to implement this intervention:

1. Select a Positioning Aid: Obtain a wedge pillow designed to maintain a side-sleeping position, or use a tactile deterrent such as a tennis ball sewn into a small pouch on the back of a pajama top.
2. Establish the Position: Instruct the individual to lie on their side rather than their back when preparing for sleep.
3. Secure the Aid: If using a wedge, place it firmly against the individual's back to provide physical resistance against rolling into a supine position. If using the tennis ball method, ensure the pouch is centered between the shoulder blades so that any movement toward the back causes discomfort, prompting a return to the side.
4. Verify the Fix: Monitor the individual during sleep to confirm they remain on their side. Success is validated if the snoring sounds cease or are significantly reduced when the individual is maintained in this lateral position.

Safety Precautions: Ensure that the positioning aid does not restrict the individual's ability to move if they need to adjust during the night, and monitor for any signs of discomfort or neck strain.

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