Medical, OB/GYNQuestion 70 of 100

A woman in her third trimester complains of dizziness when lying flat on her back. The best position is:

a.Prone
b.Trendelenburg
c.Fully upright and walking
d.Left lateral recumbent (tilted onto her left side)

Explanation

Late in pregnancy the uterus can compress the vena cava when supine, reducing blood return and causing hypotension. Placing the patient on her left side relieves this pressure and improves circulation.

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