A patient with pneumonia in the right lower lobe is prescribed percussion and postural drainage. When performing percussion and postural drainage, the nurse should position him:
A) In semi-Fowler's position with his knees bent
B) In a right side-lying position with the foot of his bed elevated
C) In a prone or supine position with the foot of his bed elevated higher than his head
D) Bent at the waist leaning slightly forward
Ans: C
Feedback: The aim of percussion and postural drainage is to mobilize pulmonary secretions so they can be effectively expectorated. When a patient has pneumonia in the right lower lobe, the nurse should position him with his right side up or lower lobes elevated above the upper lobes so that gravity can help mobilize pulmonary secretions. Options A and D are incorrect because the semi-Fowler's position and being bent forward at the waist would hamper mobilization of secretions from the right lower lobe. Option B is incorrect because the patient should be positioned with his right side up.
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