Identify the position in the following image:

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Explanation

The image shows a person lying flat on their abdomen with their head turned to the side.
This is the definition of the prone position.
This position provides access to the posterior (back) side of the body and is used to improve breathing in certain respiratory conditions.

Option A: The supine position involves lying on the back, facing upwards. The image clearly shows the person lying on their stomach.
Option C: The Sims' position is a side-lying position, typically on the left side, with the upper leg flexed. The person in the image is lying flat on their abdomen.
Option D: The dorsal recumbent position involves lying on the back with knees bent. The person in the image is lying on their stomach with legs extended.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of common patient positions used in healthcare as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must be proficient in positioning patients correctly for comfort, safety, and therapeutic effectiveness.
For patients in the prone position, nursing responsibilities include monitoring for respiratory distress, protecting pressure points (chin, chest, knees, toes), ensuring airway patency, and managing any attached lines or tubes.
What if the patient had a spinal injury? The prone position would be contraindicated as it can cause hyperextension of the lumbar spine. In such cases, a stable, neutral alignment, often maintained with logrolling, is critical.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully observe the key characteristics of the position shown in the image. Note that the person is lying on their stomach.
Next, recall the definitions of the patient positions listed in the options.
Compare your observation with the definitions. 'Lying on the stomach' directly matches the definition of the prone position.
Systematically eliminate the other options by identifying why they do not match the image (e.g., supine is on the back, Sims' is on the side).
Confirm your choice. The image is a classic representation of the prone position.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q6M3u-I3v1NDT1ZcvHM068

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor pp. 208-210, 360-362

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 4 p. 155-157

Practise the full AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.