A Comparison of Effect of Semi Fowler’s and Side Lying Position on Pulmonary Functions and Oxygen Saturation in Bedridden Patients

Abstract

Background: Body positioning is prescribed to optimize cardiopulmonary functions. Positioning helps to improve lung function and oxygen saturation in patients who are bedridden for longer duration. The aim of the present study is comparing semi fowler’s position to side lying position (right and left side lying). \nMethod: Thirty bedridden subjects who were haemodynamically stable were included in the study. Out of them three groups were made in which first group was given semi fowler’s position, second group was given left side lying and third group was given right side lying position. Patients have to maintain this position for 30 minutes. \nOutcome measure: FVC, FEV1, RR and SPO2 were taken before and after positioning which are objective measure of lung function and oxygen saturation respectively. Parameters were compared before and after positioning and between groups by non-parametric tests. \nResult: shows significant difference between before and after within groups. When each of these sides lying position were compared to semi fowler’s positions, semi fowler’s position was found to be more effective in improving pulmonary functions and oxygen saturation.