Examination Positions
POSITIONS AREAS ASSESSED
■ Anterior chest for
SUPINE
respiratory,
cardiac, and breast exams
(should be supine for breast
exam).
■ Pulses and extremities.
■ Head and neck.
SITTING
■ Anterior and posterior chest
for
respiratory, cardiac, and
breast
exams.
■ Vital signs and upper
extremities.
DORSAL RECUMBENT ■ Abdomen: Basically supine
position with knees slightly
flexed to relax abdominal
muscles.
■ Female pelvic area if patient
is
unable to assume lithotomy or
Sims’ position.
■ Lithotomy position for
female
pelvic and rectal areas
essentially same as dorsal
recumbent but legs and feet
in
stirrups.
SIMS
■ Female pelvic and rectal
areas:
Best alternative if patient is
unable to assume lithotomy
position.
PRONE
■ Musculoskeletal system.
ADVANTAGES &
DISADVANTAGES
■ If patient has trouble
breathing in
supine position, use semi-
Fowler’s
position (semi sitting with
knees
flexed and supported by
pillows).
■ Provides good visualization.
■ Allows full lung expansion
for
respiratory assessment.
■ Patients with weakness or
paralysis
may have difficulty assuming
position and need assistance.
■ If patient has abdominal
pain,
flexing knees is usually more
comfortable.
■ Older patients may have
difficulty
assuming lithotomy position.
■ May be difficult to assume if
patient
has arthritis.
■ Contraindicated if patient
has had
total hip replacement.
■ Difficult position for many
patients,
especially those with
respiratory
disease.
KNEE-CHEST
■ Male rectal and prostate ■ This position and its
areas: alternative
Best position for these exams. (bending over a table) are
very
difficult and embarrassing for
most
patients.)

Maddie