Question

A nurse is caring for an unconscious patient who has just been admitted to the postanesthesia care unit after abdominal hysterectomy. How should the nurse position the patient?

a. Left lateral position with head supported on a pillow
b. Prone position with a pillow supporting the abdomen
c. Supine position with head of bed elevated 30 degrees
d. Semi-Fowler's position with the head turned to the right

Answer 1

The correct position for an unconscious patient after an abdominal hysterectomy is the left lateral position with the head supported on a pillow, aiding in airway patency and reducing aspiration risk.

Step-by-step explanation:

The proper positioning of an unconscious patient after an abdominal hysterectomy is crucial for their recovery and to prevent aspiration. According to best practices in postoperative care, the recommended position would be a left lateral position with the head supported on a pillow. This position helps maintain a patent airway and reduces the risk of aspiration. It also aids in venous drainage and can help prevent pressure ulcers by distributing the weight of the body more evenly. In comparison, a prone position would be inappropriate due to the recent abdominal surgery, and although elevating the head of the bed can help in some cases, the lateral position is typically preferred immediately post-surgery for abdominal procedures. Therefore, the best answer in this scenario is (a) Left lateral position with the head supported on a pillow.