Postural Drainage
A respiratory therapy technique using gravity and body positioning to facilitate airway clearance in neurologically impaired patients with compromised cough effectiveness.
Full Definition
Postural drainage is a respiratory intervention that utilizes specific body positions and gravity to promote the drainage of secretions from different lung segments. In neurorehabilitation, this technique is particularly important for patients with impaired cough reflexes, reduced mobility, or dysphagia who are at risk for pneumonia and respiratory complications. The therapy involves positioning the patient so that the affected lung segment is elevated, allowing gravity to assist in moving secretions toward larger airways where they can be more easily cleared.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify positioning requirements and contraindications in treatment orders. Hyphenate when used as an adjective.
In Context
- "Postural drainage was prescribed twice daily to prevent respiratory complications in the patient with severe dysphagia." — Respiratory therapy order
- "The nursing staff was trained in proper postural drainage techniques to maintain pulmonary hygiene." — Staff education documentation