To reduce vomiting risk during bolus feeding, what patient position should be used?

To reduce vomiting risk during bolus feeding, what patient position should be used?

• A. Fowler's position on the right side
• B. Flat on back
• C. Prone
• D. Trendelenburg

Answer: (A)

Positioning during bolus feeding relies on gravity to limit reflux and aspiration. Elevating the head of the bed (Fowler's) keeps the torso upright, which reduces the chance that stomach contents will push back into the esophagus during and after the feed. Being on the right side helps direct gastric contents toward the pylorus and into the small intestine, promoting emptying and further decreasing the potential for regurgitation. So, using Fowler's position with the patient on the right side best minimizes vomiting risk during bolus feeding. In practice, keep the head of the bed elevated about 30-45 degrees during and after the bolus feed. Flat on the back, prone, or Trendelenburg positions increase reflux risk and are not as protective.

Positioning during bolus feeding relies on gravity to limit reflux and aspiration. Elevating the head of the bed (Fowler's) keeps the torso upright, which reduces the chance that stomach contents will push back into the esophagus during and after the feed. Being on the right side helps direct gastric contents toward the pylorus and into the small intestine, promoting emptying and further decreasing the potential for regurgitation. So, using Fowler's position with the patient on the right side best minimizes vomiting risk during bolus feeding. In practice, keep the head of the bed elevated about 30-45 degrees during and after the bolus feed. Flat on the back, prone, or Trendelenburg positions increase reflux risk and are not as protective.