Examination Positions in Nursing

Questions and Answers

What is the Dorsal Recumbent Position?

Lying flat on back with legs extended

On back with knees flexed and soles of feet flat on bed (correct)

Sitting position with back elevated to 90 degrees

Patient is lying on abdomen with head turned to one side

What is the Supine/Horizontal Recumbent Position used for?

Surgical procedures

Examining the spine and back

Rectal examinations

Most physical examinations (correct)

What is the angle of elevation for the Semi-Fowler's position?

45 degrees

What is the High-Fowler's position used for?

Examination of the upper body and head Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Lithotomy Position from the Dorsal Recumbent Position?

Legs are well-separated and feet are in stirrups Signup and view all the answers

What is the orientation of the patient in the Prone Position?

Lying on abdomen with head turned to one side Signup and view all the answers

In the Sims' Position, how is the patient's leg positioned?

Right knee flexed against the abdomen and left knee slightly flexed Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Knee-Chest Position?

Rectal and vaginal examinations, and treatment for uterus positioning Signup and view all the answers

What does the Trendelenburg Position involve?

Patient lying flat on back with head 45 degrees lower than the body Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Examination Positions

Dorsal Recumbent Position: Patient lies on back with knees flexed and feet flat on the bed, often used for abdominal examinations and certain procedures.
Supine/Horizontal Recumbent Position: Patient rests on back with legs extended; arms can be positioned above the head, alongside the body, or folded on the chest, commonly used for most physical examinations.
Semi-Fowler's Position: Patient sits or is semi-sitting with the exam table back elevated to 45 degrees. Ideal for patients with cardiovascular or respiratory issues; beneficial for examining the upper body and head.
High-Fowler's Position: Patient is in a sitting position with the exam table back elevated to 90 degrees. Typically used for patients who have cardiovascular or respiratory problems and requires upper body and head examination.
Lithotomy Position: Similar to dorsal recumbent but legs are well-separated with feet in stirrups. A folded sheet or blanket covers the thighs and legs, ensuring the genital area is exposed while maintaining patient privacy until the procedure.
Prone Position: Ideal for examining the spine and back; patient lies on stomach with head turned to one side for comfort. Arms can be positioned above the head or alongside the body, covered with a sheet or blanket.
Sims' Position: Used for rectal examination; patient lies on the left side with the right knee flexed against the abdomen and the left knee slightly flexed. The left arm rests behind the body while the right arm is positioned comfortably.
Knee-Chest Position: Utilized for rectal and vaginal examinations or to treat uterine positioning. Patient kneels with chest on the bed, elbows resting on the bed or arms extended above head. The head is turned to one side with thighs straight and lower legs flat on the bed.
Trendelenburg Position: Patient is flat on back with the table angled so the head is 45 degrees lower than the body. Primarily used in surgical procedures involving the pelvis and abdomen or for patients experiencing low blood pressure.

Description

This quiz tests your knowledge of various patient examination positions utilized in nursing and medical settings. It covers important positions such as Dorsal Recumbent, Supine, and Fowler's positions, along with their uses and benefits for patient care. Enhance your understanding of these techniques essential for effective patient assessment and treatment.