What is the primary reason for placing a pillow below the paper on an examination table?

Placing a pillow below the paper on an examination table primarily serves to reduce transmission of contaminants. This action creates a barrier that can help protect both the patient and the examination table from direct contact with pathogens that might be present on the surface of the table. The use of a pillow acts as an additional layer, limiting the potential for cross-contamination during patient assessments.

While comfort for the patient is important, it is not the primary reason for this specific practice. Similarly, while one might think of the prevention of tearing of the paper or ensuring proper height for examination, these considerations are secondary to the main goal of maintaining cleanliness and reducing the risk of infection during medical examinations. Thus, the emphasis on minimizing contamination makes this practice crucial in maintaining a safe healthcare environment.