Question

A nurse places a patient in the orthopneic position. What is the primary reason for the use of this position?

a.Facilitate respirations
b.Support hip extension
c.Prevent pressure ulcers
d.Promote urinary elimination

Answer 1

The orthopneic position is used to facilitate better breathing and respiratory function, providing lung expansion and improved gas exchange. It can also reduce the risk of respiratory complications in bedridden patients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary reason for placing a patient in the orthopneic position is to facilitate respirations. This position is particularly useful for patients who are having respiratory difficulties, as it allows for better expansion of the lungs and can assist with gas and nutrient exchange. The orthopneic position typically involves the patient sitting or leaning forward, supporting themselves with their arms on a pillow or over the back of a chair to promote better breathing.

This position takes advantage of gravity to help control the backflow of acids in conditions like GERD by elevating the head of the bed, and it can reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure in bedridden patients by improving air exchange. Contrary to promoting the diffusion of fluid into the interstitial space, it aims to prevent this issue, especially in patients with conditions such as congestive heart failure.