In which of the following positions does the patient lie flat on the abdomen with the head turned to one side?

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2022

Explanation

The prone position is defined as lying horizontally on the abdomen, with the face and head turned to one side.
This position directly matches the description provided in the question stem.
It is used for assessments of the posterior thorax and hip joint extension.
Therapeutically, it is used to improve oxygenation in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and to relieve pressure on the sacrum and heels.

Option A: The supine position involves the patient lying on their back, not their abdomen.
Option C: Fowler's position is a semi-sitting position where the head of the bed is elevated, not lying flat on the abdomen.
Option D: Sims' position is a side-lying (semi-prone) position, not lying flat on the abdomen. The patient's weight is on the anterior aspect of the shoulder and hip.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Knowledge of basic therapeutic patient positions to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
Correct patient positioning is a fundamental nursing skill essential for patient comfort, safety, and preventing complications like pressure ulcers, nerve damage, and contractures.
Nurses must frequently reposition immobile patients (at least every 2 hours) to redistribute pressure and maintain skin integrity.
The choice of position can significantly impact physiological functions, such as respiration and circulation, and is a key component of many treatment plans.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of standard medical terminology.
First, break down the question to its core components: 'patient lies flat on the abdomen'.
Next, systematically review the definition of each option provided.
Supine means lying on the back.
Prone means lying on the stomach/abdomen.
Fowler's means sitting up at an angle.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor pp. 208-210, 210-212, 360-362

Practise the full RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2022

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