Several common positions are used in nursing to meet specific patient needs, including:
- Supine Position: The patient lies flat on their back. This position is often used for post-operative recovery and during certain medical examinations. - Prone Position: The patient lies on their stomach. This can help improve oxygenation for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). - Fowler's Position: The patient is seated at a 45 to 60-degree angle. This position is beneficial for patients with respiratory distress and to prevent aspiration. - Lateral Position: The patient lies on their side. This position is useful for patients at risk of pressure ulcers and improves drainage from oral secretions. - Trendelenburg Position: The patient is laid flat on their back with their feet elevated higher than their head. This position is sometimes used in emergency situations to improve blood flow to vital organs.
