Traditional positioning cushions in six shapes and sizes The cushions can be used in lateral and supine positioning to support the back, arms, legs, knees, ankles, or in a supine position to facilitate breathing. The positioning cushions can also be used to protect exposed body parts from pressure from bed rails. The AVT method By varying the position of two Basic L´s, the cushions may support respiration. The method is named AVT because the letters symbolize how the cushions are placed. This can prevent pneumonia and improve lung function because the positions expand different parts of the lungs.