Editing Anatomy and Physiology – LPN Practice Questions (section)

==Question 13==
A licensed practical nurse is preparing a patient with pneumonia in the right lower lobe for rest. Which position is generally '''most helpful''' for improving oxygenation?
# Supine with the bed flat.
# Lying on the right side.
# Lying on the left side.
# Prone with the head turned to the right.

'''Answer:''' 3 (C). Lying on the left side.

''Rationale:'' Gravity increases blood flow to whichever lung is dependent, or lowest. Placing the healthier left lung down directs more blood to the area where air exchange is working best, which improves oxygenation. This is the "good lung down" principle. Option 2 would send more blood to the diseased lung, where the alveoli are filled with fluid and exudate, and would worsen the mismatch between ventilation and blood flow. Option 1 does not take advantage of gravity and increases the risk of secretion pooling. Option 4 is not routine basic care for pneumonia on a medical unit and requires specific prescription and monitoring. Elevating the head of the bed also helps by allowing the diaphragm to move more freely.