Unit 5: Patient positioning

Question 1

What does the patient positioning need to provide

Answer 1

Provide adequate exposure of the surgical site
Provide sufficient access to the patient for monitoring vital signs

Question 2

Why does an animal need to be appropriately tied to the table

Answer 2

Aids in aseptic preparation of the surgical site
Ensures that the surgeon has an immobile subject

Question 3

How do you position a patient

Answer 3

Positioning is dedicated by the surgical procedure
The animals limbs may be tied to the table
The body may be braced in a position by a V-trough or sandbags
The head, neck, or abdomen may need to be elevated using a foam rubber tube or rolled towels
The patient’s legs should not be forced to bend or extend beyond their natural anatomic limitations
Bony prominences should be cushioned to protect against excessive compression