LPN Fundamentals of Nursing Quizlet Related

Review LPN Fundamentals of Nursing Quizlet related questions and content

Which position is recommended for a patient who has difficulty breathing or respiratory distress?

  • A. Supine position
  • B. Prone position
  • C. Fowler's position
  • D. Side-lying position
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: For patients struggling with breathing or respiratory distress, elevating the head in a sitting or semi-sitting position maximizes lung expansion and eases respiratory effort. This approach leverages gravity to assist diaphragm movement, improving oxygenation, which is vital in conditions like pneumonia or heart failure. Lying flat on the back can compress the chest, worsening distress, while lying on the stomach is impractical and may obstruct airflow for such patients. Positioning on the side might help in specific cases, like unilateral lung issues, but it's less universally effective for general respiratory support. Nurses choose this position to optimize airway clearance and comfort, directly addressing the physiological need for better ventilation in acute respiratory challenges.