Ryggleie

Ryggleie is a Norwegian term meaning the supine position, in which a person lies flat on their back with the face upward. It is a common body position used in clinical, surgical and diagnostic settings and in everyday rest.

In healthcare, ryggleie facilitates examination of the anterior body, abdominal palpation, cardiopulmonary assessment and many surgical procedures. It is the standard position for cardiopulmonary resuscitation because it allows effective chest compressions on a firm surface. Variants include semi-recumbent positions with head elevation, and modified supine positions used for specific procedures.

Advantages of ryggleie include ease of access to the torso, stable positioning for imaging and procedures, and simplified monitoring of vital functions. Risks and limitations include increased risk of aspiration if protective airway reflexes are impaired, potential respiratory compromise in persons with obesity or diaphragmatic weakness, and hemodynamic effects such as aortocaval compression in late pregnancy (supine hypotension syndrome). Prolonged time in ryggleie can contribute to pressure injuries, particularly over the sacrum and heels, and to reduced pulmonary ventilation in some patients.

Clinical practice often mitigates these risks by adjusting head elevation, using lateral tilt for pregnant patients, applying padding, performing regular repositioning, and observing airway precautions. In emergency and operative contexts, ryggleie remains a fundamental, versatile posture, chosen and modified according to patient condition and procedural requirements.