How would you document the position of a patient with a possible fracture of the left hip who is lying on her back with her left leg turned outward?

Documenting the position of a patient is critical for conveying important information about their condition, especially in cases of potential fractures. In this scenario, the patient is lying on her back, known as a supine position, which is the first part of the documentation.

The description of the left leg being turned outward indicates external rotation. In hip fractures, especially those involving the femur, it is common to see the affected leg rotate externally as a result of muscle and ligament tension around the hip joint.

Thus, stating that the patient is "supine with external rotation of the left lower extremity" accurately reflects both her lying position and the orientation of her injured leg. Proper documentation in this manner ensures that any medical professional reviewing the notes understands the patient's specific position and the nature of her injury, which is crucial for ongoing care and treatment.