Patient Positions

Question 1

Semi-Fowler’s + 2 fx

Answer 1

supine, head 30º/knees 15º
↑ breathing
↓ aspiration/regurgitation

Question 2

Fowler’s + 2 fx

Answer 2

supine, head 45º/knees 15º
NG insertion/suction
↑↑ breathing

Question 3

High-Fowler’s + 1 fx

Answer 3

supine, head 90º

↑↑↑ breathing

Question 4

Supine/Dorsal recumbent* + 1 fx

Answer 4

on back w/ pillow below head

-use foot support to prevent footdrop

Question 5

Prone + 2 fx

Answer 5

flat on abdomen
↑ drainage post-PO surgery
↓ chest expansion

Question 6

Lateral/Side-Lying

Answer 6

side w/ weight on dependent hip/shoulder w/ pillows under head/neck and all extremities
↑ sleep!!! TURN and place at 30º to prevent pressure ulcers

Question 7

Sim’s/Semi-Prone + 2 fx

Answer 7

Halfway lateral/prone (weight on clavicle)
↑ sleep
↑ drainage post-PO surgery

Question 8

Orthopneic + 1 fx

Answer 8

Sitting @ bedside w/ pillow on table, patient rests arms on piellow
↑ chest expansion for COPD

Question 9

Trendelenburg + 2 fx

Answer 9

Head ↓ than foot
↑ postural drainage
↑ venous return

Question 10

Reverse Trendelenburg + 2 fx

Answer 10

Head ↑ than foot↑ gastric emptying

↓ GERD

Question 11

Modified Trendelenburg + 2 fx

Answer 11

supine w/ legs elevated above ♥
↓ HYPOvolemia
↑ venous return