Positioning: one good turn after another?
Changing the position of a critically ill patient needs careful evaluation to prevent hypoxaemia. This article reviews the literature to determine how lateral and supine positioning can be used to maximise gas exchange in the critically ill. The relationship between reduced cardiac output and hypoxia is reviewed. Implications for nursing practice are discussed.
Wheeler
H
H
Intensive Therapy Unit, Royal United Hospital, Bath.
D002302:Cardiac Output; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D000860:Hypoxia / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000379:methods*; D011187:Posture; D011659:Pulmonary Gas Exchange