Question

The nurse should place the client in a position that allows for greater expansion of the chest, such as sitting upright and leaning slightly forward while supporting both arms with pillows for comfort on the overbed table.

A) High-Fowler's position with the arms supported on the overbed table (Correct)
B) Supine position with arms crossed over the chest
C) Prone position with arms extended above the head
D) Trendelenburg position with the arms at the sides

Answer 1

The High-Fowler's position with the arms supported on the overbed table is ideal for chest expansion and respiratory function. This position is often utilized by nurses to optimize patients' lung capacity, especially during respiratory distress.

Step-by-step explanation:

The position that allows for greater expansion of the chest and is suitable for clients needing improved respiratory function is the High-Fowler's position with the arms supported on the overbed table. The High-Fowler's position involves sitting the client upright at a 90-degree angle and can be advantageous for patients with breathing difficulties because it allows for optimal lung expansion and eases the work of breathing.

Other positions, such as the supine position with arms crossed over the chest, prone position with arms extended above the head, and Trendelenburg position with the arms at the sides, are not recommended for promoting chest expansion. In clinical settings, beside providing comfort, a nurse frequently uses these positions to optimize physiological functions depending on the patient's condition.