What position is most supportive for a patient with respiratory distress?

For a patient experiencing respiratory distress, sitting at a 90-degree angle is the most supportive position. This posture, often referred to as the "high Fowler's position," helps by allowing maximum expansion of the chest cavity. When the upper body is upright, gravity assists lung expansion, facilitating easier breathing and improving oxygenation.

Additionally, this position reduces the pressure of abdominal contents on the diaphragm, which can further ease the work of breathing. It also allows for better engagement of the accessory muscles of respiration, which can be crucial in patients who are struggling to breathe.

While other positions may provide some level of comfort or support in different scenarios, none offer the same degree of respiratory efficiency as sitting upright. Being flat can hinder lung expansion and worsen respiratory distress, while both lateral and semi-reclined positions may not provide optimal airflow and could restrict the movement of the diaphragm and the lungs.