Bettpositioning

Bettpositioning, or bed positioning, refers to the deliberate adjustment of a patient’s body position in bed to support medical goals, promote comfort, and prevent complications. The practice is used across acute and long-term care, in surgery, and during critical illness to optimize breathing, circulation, drainage, and tissue perfusion, as well as to facilitate procedures and imaging.

Common positions include supine (lying on the back), prone (lying on the stomach), and lateral or side-lying (lying on one side). Other frequently used positions are Fowler’s (head of bed elevated, typically 30 to 60 degrees), semi-Fowler’s, and the Sims’ or lateral oblique position (a semi-prone posture with one leg flexed). More specialized positions, such as Trendelenburg (body tilted with the feet higher than the head) and reverse Trendelenburg, may be used for specific clinical indications. Orthopneic and high-Fowler’s positions are often used to improve breathing and facilitate chest expansion.

Positioning is guided by patient assessment, skin integrity, respiratory status, circulatory needs, and the risk of nerve or tissue injury. Pressure-relieving surfaces, cushions, wedges, and pillows are used to protect bony prominences and maintain alignment of the spine, head, and joints. Repositioning schedules, typically every two hours for non-ambulatory patients, help prevent pressure ulcers and contractures. Staff should ensure airway patency, monitor comfort, and secure the patient with appropriate supports and bed safety features.

Care is provided by trained healthcare professionals, with adjustments tailored to each patient’s condition, mobility, and tolerance.