Patient Positioning Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is Fowler's position?

The patient's head is lower than the feet.

The patient lies on the abdomen with head turned to one side.

The head and trunk are raised 40 to 90 degrees. (correct)

The patient lies on one side with the top leg in front of the bottom leg.

What is the purpose of the orthopneic or tripod position?

To allow maximum expansion of the chest for patients having difficulty breathing.

Describe the dorsal recumbent position.

The client's head and shoulders are slightly elevated on a small pillow.

The supine position involves the head and shoulders being elevated.

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What is the main benefit of the prone position?

It allows full extension of the hip and knee joints and promotes drainage. Signup and view all the answers

What is lateral recumbent position?

The patient lies on one side with the top leg in front of the bottom leg. Signup and view all the answers

What is Sims' position?

A semi-prone position where the patient is halfway between lateral and prone. Signup and view all the answers

What does Trendelenburg's position involve?

Lowering the head of the bed and raising the foot of the bed. Signup and view all the answers

What is Reverse Trendelenburg?

The head of the bed is elevated with the foot of the bed down. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Fowler's Position

Head and trunk elevated between 40 to 90 degrees.
Aids breathing by allowing greater chest and lung expansion.
Used for patients with cardiac, respiratory, or neurological issues.
Low Fowler's: 15 to 45 degrees; High Fowler's: 90 degrees.
Recommended footboard to prevent foot drop.

Orthopneic or Tripod Position

Patient sits, leaning on an overbed table with pillows for support.
Maximizes chest expansion for individuals experiencing difficulty in breathing.

Dorsal Recumbent Position

Patient lies on back with head and shoulders slightly elevated.
Provides comfort and aids healing post-surgery or anesthesia.

Supine or Dorsal Position

Back-lying position without head elevation.
Offers comfort for patients recovering from various surgeries.

Prone Position

Patient lies flat on the abdomen with head turned to one side.
Facilitates full hip and knee joint extension; promotes drainage from the mouth.
Suitable for unconscious patients or those recovering from mouth/throat surgery.
Alignment crucial; a pillow under the head and a towel roll under the abdomen are recommended.

Lateral Recumbent Position

Side-lying posture with top leg in front and knees flexed.
Increases stability and balance by creating a triangular base of support.
Reduces lordosis and improves back alignment.
Relieves pressure on sacrum and heels, beneficial for bedridden or those in Fowler's position.
Important for pregnant women to shift uterus off Inferior Vena Cava, aiding blood return to the heart.

Sims' Position

Semi-prone posture between lateral and prone positions.
Lower arm behind, upper arm flexed at shoulder and elbow; both legs flexed in front.
Facilitates drainage and prevents aspiration for unconscious or paralyzed clients.
Provides comfort for pregnant women and is used during enemas or perineal treatments.
Proper alignment supported by pillows under the head, upper arm, and between legs.

Trendelenburg's Position

Flat bed with the head lowered and foot raised.
Helpful for patients with hypotension, promoting venous return.

Reverse Trendelenburg Position

Opposite of Trendelenburg; head of bed is elevated and foot lowered.
Preferred for gastrointestinal issues to minimize esophageal reflux.

Description

Explore essential patient positioning terminology with these flashcards. Learn about Fowler's position and its applications for individuals experiencing difficulty in breathing. Deepen your understanding of how different angles can impact patient care.