Stable Side Position

Question 1

What is the 1 indication for the stable side position?

Answer 1

1. Patient is in an altered conscious state and airway may be compromised by supine position.

Question 2

What are the 2 contraindications for the stable side position?

Answer 2

1. Cardiac arrest

2. Further airway inspection/management required

Question 3

What are the 3 precautions for the stable side position?

Answer 3

1. Pt who has an intact gag reflex or OPA/NPA in situ. Can still be managed in lateral position but require constant reassessments of airway, RR and VT.
2. Spinal column or cord injury. Maintain MILS while managing laterally.
3. Potential for needlesticks while removing objects from pockets.

Question 4

What is the anatomical function of the lateral position?

Answer 4

Prevents pt from rolling flat, prevents tongue from falling to back of mouth, allows passive drainage of oral fluids.