Ergonomic Principles (Fundamentals Ch 14)

Question 1

Semi-Fowler’s position

Answer 1

• Client lies supine with head of bed elevated approx. 30 degrees (knees may be slightly elevated–about 15 degrees).
• Used to prevent regurgitation of enteral feedings and aspiration in clients who have difficulty swallowing

Question 2

Fowler’s position

Answer 2

• Client lies supine with hob slightly elevated approx 45 degrees (knees may be slightly elevated–about 15 degrees).
• Used during nasagostric tube insertion and suctioning–allows for better chest expansion and ventilation and better drainage after abdominal surgeries.

Question 3

High-Fowler’s position

Answer 3

• Client lies supine with head of bed elevated approx 90 degrees–knees may or may not be elevated.
• Promotes lung expansion by lowering diaphragm and is used for clients experiencing severe dyspnea.

Question 4

Supine or dorsal recumbent position

Answer 4

-Client lies on back with head and shoulders elevated on a pillow. Forearms may be placed on pillows or placed at sides. Foot support prevents footdrop and maintains proper alignment.

Question 5

Prone position

Answer 5

• Client lies flat on abdomen with head to one side.

- Promotes drainage from mouth for clients after throat or oral surgery, but inhibits chest expansion.

Question 6

Lateral or side-lying position

Answer 6

• Client lies on side with most weight on dependent hip and shoulder. Arms should be flexed in front of body; pillow placed under head and neck, upper arm, and under leg and thigh to maintain body alignment.
• Good sleeping position, but must be turned regularly to prevent dev. of pressure ulcers. Lateral 30 degrees position rec. for clients at risk for press. ulcers.

Question 7

Sims’ or semi-prone position

Answer 7

• Client on side halfway between lateral and prone positions. Lower arm behind client while upper arm in front. Both legs flexed, but upper leg flexed at greater angle then lower leg at hip as well as knee.
• Comfortable for sleeping and promotes oral drainage.

Question 8

Orthopneic position

Answer 8

• Client sits in bed or at bedside. Pillow placed on over-bed table which is placed across client’s lap. Client rests arms on over-bed table.
• Allows for chest expansion and esp. beneficial to clients with COPD.

Question 9

Trendelenburg position

Answer 9

• Entire bed is tilted with head of bed lower than foot of bed.
• Used during postural drainage, facilitates venous return.

Question 10

Reverse Trendelenburg position

Answer 10

• Entire bed tilted with foot of bed lower than head of bed.

- Promotes gastric emptying and prevents esophageal reflux.

Question 11

Modified Trendelenburg

Answer 11

• Client remains flat with legs elevated above level of heart.
• Used to prevent and treat hypovolemia and facilitates venous return.