Intermediate
Technical
IVT
prone positioning
A therapeutic intervention placing patients face-down to improve oxygenation in severe lung injury.
Full Definition
Prone positioning involves turning patients with severe ARDS face-down for extended periods (typically 12-16 hours) to improve ventilation-perfusion matching and oxygenation. In pediatric critical care, prone positioning can significantly improve oxygenation in moderate to severe ARDS by reducing atelectasis and improving lung mechanics. The intervention requires careful attention to pressure points, airway security, and hemodynamic monitoring. Contraindications include unstable spine, increased intracranial pressure, and recent abdominal surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Use as two words; avoid abbreviating to 'proning' in formal documentation.
In Context
- "Prone positioning was initiated for 16 hours daily due to severe ARDS with P/F ratio of 80." — Nursing care plan
- "The patient showed marked improvement in oxygenation within 2 hours of prone positioning." — Progress note
Also known as
proning
prone therapy
Contrasted with
supine positioning
Don't confuse with
lateral positioning
reverse Trendelenburg