Body Positions

Question 1

What is the Supine position and what can it be used for?

Answer 1

Patient lies on his/her back. (face up).
Is the most commonly used surgical procedure position.
Can provide comfort for some patients recovering from most surgery procedures.
Used in general examination.
Vertebral injuries

Question 2

What is the Fowler’s position and what can it be used for?

Answer 2

Fowler’s position is when the patient head of the bed is raised to a 45-60 degree angle.
Can improve ventilation
To prevent strain on abdominal muscles.
Preferred when patient’s eat

Question 3

What is the Trendelenberg position and what can it be used for?

Answer 3

Trendelenberg position is when the patient is positioned with their feet higher than their head. (head down tilt).
This can be used to prevent shock.
Patients who have hypotension can benefit from this as it promotes venous return.
Can be used for postural drainage.

Question 4

What is the Prone position and what can it be used for?

Answer 4

Prone position is when the patient lies on their front. (face down)
Can be used for patient’s that have had procedures done on their back. (spinal)
Can keep pus away from the spine.

Question 5

What is the Sim’s position and what can it be used for?

Answer 5

The Sim’s position is when the patient is placed on their side. (lateral Position)
Is used when a patient is receiving a barium enema.
Examination of the perennial area.
Can be used in labour (when on their left side) to prevent compressing the vena cava during uterine contraction.