In the prone position, which site is at risk for pressure sores when a face hole is used?

• A. Cheek/ear
• B. Acromion process
• C. Anterior chest
• D. Iliac crest

Answer: (A)

A face hole in the prone position concentrates pressure on the cheek and ear areas, making them the most at-risk sites for pressure sores. When the face is held in a hole, the surrounding cheek tissue and the ear sit against the mattress or a cushion for extended periods, and these soft tissues overlie underlying bony structures. Prolonged, unrelieved pressure impedes blood flow, leading to ischemia and tissue breakdown in that region. The other areas mentioned are less likely to bear focused pressure from the face hole itself, though they can still be vulnerable if padding is inadequate or positioning changes. Proper padding around the cheeks and ears or a specialized face cushion helps distribute the load and protect these tissues.