ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

A patient in a recumbent position with the head lower than the feet is said to be in which of the following positions?

1. Trendelenburg

2. Fowler

3. Sims

4. Stenver

The correct answer is: Trendelenburg

When a patient is in a recumbent position with the head lower than the feet, the position is referred to as Trendelenburg. This position is typically utilized in various medical situations, often to enhance venous return to the heart, which can be beneficial in cases of shock or hypotension. The Trendelenburg position helps to improve blood flow to vital organs by temporarily redistributing blood volume in a way that can stabilize patients experiencing certain medical conditions. It may also be used during surgical procedures to provide better access to the pelvis and abdominal organs. In contrast, the Fowler position involves the patient sitting upright, and Sim's position is a variation of the lateral position used for specific examinations or procedures. The Stenver position is not a standard term used in patient positioning within the healthcare context. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique application and utilities of each position in patient care.