proning
Positioning a patient face-down to improve oxygenation and ventilation distribution in respiratory failure.
Full Definition
Proning, or prone positioning, involves placing a patient face-down (prone) rather than on their back (supine) to improve respiratory mechanics and gas exchange. This positioning technique redistributes ventilation to previously dependent lung regions, reduces ventilation-perfusion mismatch, and can significantly improve oxygenation in patients with ARDS or other forms of severe respiratory failure. The procedure requires careful coordination among respiratory therapists, nurses, and physicians to safely turn the patient while maintaining airway security and preventing pressure injuries. Proning sessions typically last 12-16 hours and may be repeated based on patient response.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify duration and frequency of proning sessions in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Consider proning for 16 hours to improve this ARDS patient's refractory hypoxemia." — Critical care management plan
- "The patient showed marked improvement in P/F ratio after 12 hours of proning." — Respiratory therapy progress note