Final answer:
The proper position for changing an ostomy pouch is to have the patient lie on their back in the supine position, with possible elevation of the head and shoulders for accessibility and comfort.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse is preparing to change an ostomy pouch for a client, it is important to place the client in the correct position for both comfort and accessibility. Typically, the ideal position for changing an ostomy pouch is to have the client lie on their back, which is also known as the supine position.
In some cases, depending on the location of the ostomy and the client's mobility, a slight elevation of the head and shoulders may be helpful, which can be achieved with pillows. This position allows for easy access to the stoma and provides a flat surface for the new pouch to adhere to the skin. It's essential to maintain cleanliness and protect the skin around the stoma during the pouch change process.