Positions Therapeutic Function
Flat (supine)
- Avoids hip flexion, which can compress
- Supine with knees flexed; more comfortable
Side Lateral
- Allows drainage of oral secretions
Side with leg bent (Sim's)
- Allows drainage of oral secretions
Side with leg bent (Sim's)
- Allows drainage of oral secretions; decreases abdominal secretions
Head elevated (Fowler's)
- Increases venous return; allows maximal lung expansion
- High Fowler's: 60 - 90 degrees
- Fowler's: 45 - 60 degrees
- Semi Fowler's: 30 45 degrees
- Low Fowler's: 15 - 30 degrees
Feet and legs elevated
- Increases blood return to heart; relieves pressure on lumbrosacral area
Feet elevated and head lowered (Trendelenbur's)
- Used to insert CVP line, or for treatment of umbilical cord compression
Feet elevated 20 degrees, knees straight, trunk flat, and head slightly elevated (modified Trendelenburg's)
- Increases venous return; used for shock
- Increases venous return. Increases blood volume to extremity
- Increases vaginal opening for examination
- Promotes extention of hip joint. Not well tolerated by persons with respiratory or cardiovascular difficulties
- Provides maximal visualizatio n of rectal area
Posts
