What position do you transport a postictal patient?

What position do you transport a postictal patient?

• A. Left lateral recumbent
• B. Supine
• C. Prone
• D. Semi-Fowler's

Answer: (A)

Protecting the airway after a seizure is essential; in the postictal state the patient may be drowsy and unable to manage Secretions or vomit. Placing the patient in the recovery position on their side helps keep the airway clear, allows saliva or vomitus to drain rather than pool, and reduces the risk of aspiration. The left side is commonly recommended because it facilitates drainage away from the airway and helps keep the tongue from occluding the airway. Other positions—lying flat on the back, face-down, or semi-upright—don’t protect the airway as effectively: supine can allow the tongue and secretions to obstruct breathing, prone can block the airway altogether, and Semi-Fowler’s does not provide optimal drainage or airway protection for an unresponsive or semi-conscious patient.

Protecting the airway after a seizure is essential; in the postictal state the patient may be drowsy and unable to manage Secretions or vomit. Placing the patient in the recovery position on their side helps keep the airway clear, allows saliva or vomitus to drain rather than pool, and reduces the risk of aspiration. The left side is commonly recommended because it facilitates drainage away from the airway and helps keep the tongue from occluding the airway. Other positions—lying flat on the back, face-down, or semi-upright—don’t protect the airway as effectively: supine can allow the tongue and secretions to obstruct breathing, prone can block the airway altogether, and Semi-Fowler’s does not provide optimal drainage or airway protection for an unresponsive or semi-conscious patient.