Patient Positions and Examinations
1. Fowler's Position
- Description: Sitting position with the back of the exam table raised to a 90-degree angle.
- Uses:
- Examinations involving the head, neck, chest.
- Useful for patients experiencing difficulty breathing while lying down.
2. Semi-Fowler's Position
- Description: Seated position leaning back against the table which is raised to a 45-degree angle.
- Uses:
- Chest exams.
- Exams requiring supine positioning but where the patient cannot lie flat.
- Appropriate for patients experiencing shortness of breath.
- Post-operative assessments, head trauma, and pain management.
3. Sims' Position
- Description: Laying on the left side with the left leg slightly flexed and the right leg flexed at a 90-
degree angle, often with a pillow between the legs.
- Uses:
- Rectal examinations.
- Administration of enemas.
- Rectal medications.
4. Knee-Chest Position
- Description: Prone position bent at the waist resting on the knees with arms above the head.
- Uses:
- Gynecological or rectal exams.