Basic Nursing SkillsQuestion 80 of 200

The position with the head of the bed elevated 45-60 degrees is called:

a.Sims' (a semi-prone side-lying position with the top knee flexed)
b.Fowler's (semi-Fowler's is 30-45°; high Fowler's is 60-90°)
c.Prone (lying flat on the abdomen with the head turned to one side)
d.Supine (lying flat on the back with the head of bed at 0 degrees)

Explanation

Fowler's position (45-60° HOB elevation) supports breathing, eating, and aspiration prevention by reducing reflux and using gravity to keep the airway protected. Semi-Fowler's (30-45°) is common for tube feeding and during and after meals; high Fowler's (60-90°) maximizes lung expansion for residents with dyspnea. Supine (d) is flat on the back; prone (c) is flat on the stomach; Sims' (a) is semi-prone left lateral with knees flexed and is used for enemas. Position changes every two hours protect skin from pressure injury.

Law Reference: Fundamentals; resident positioning

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