Postural Drainage Positions

Question 1

Both Upper Lobes - Apical

Answer 1

Lean back 60 deg

Percuss btw clavicle and scapula on each side

Question 2

Right upper lobe - anterior

Answer 2

Lie flat on back with knees on pillow

Percuss btw the clavicle and the nipple on right

Question 3

Right upper lobe - posterior

Answer 3

Bed flat, lie on left side, roll the shoulder 45 deg forward

Percuss over upper back right

Question 4

Both lower lobes - superior

Answer 4

Lie prone flat with pillow under hips and ankles

Percuss over midback just below scapula

Question 5

Both lower lobes - anterior

Answer 5

Supine with head down 30 deg

Percuss over lower ribs on each side

Question 6

Both lower lobes - posterior

Answer 6

Prone with head down 30 deg, pillows under hips and ankles

Percuss over lower ribs

Question 7

Left upper lobe - anterior

Answer 7

Lie on back with head up 30 deg

Percuss btw clavicle and left nipple

Question 8

Left upper lobe - posterior

Answer 8

Lean forward at 30 deg angle

Percuss over left upper back

Question 9

Left upper lobe - Lingula

Answer 9

Lie on right side with head down 15 deg
Roll on left shoulder back 45 deg onto a pillow
Percuss over left nipple area or just above on female

Question 10

Right middle lobe

Answer 10

Lie on left with head down 15 deg
Roll right shoulder back 45 deg
Percuss over right nipple area or just above on female

Question 11

Right lower lobe - lateral

Answer 11

Lie on left side with head down 30 deg
Pillow btw knees
Percuss over upper portion of lower ribs on right

Question 12

Left lower lobe - Lateral

Answer 12

Lie on right with head down 30 deg pillow btw knees

Percuss over upper portion of lower ribs on left

Question 13

If you tip the patient down, what will happen to vital signs?

Answer 13

BP and HR increase

Question 14

People with pneumonia will usually get percussed in what area?

Answer 14

Lower lobe - posterior