Which positioning is preferred for gastric lavage in a comatose patient to minimize aspiration?

Which positioning is preferred for gastric lavage in a comatose patient to minimize aspiration?

• A. Place the client supine with head of bed flat
• B. Place the client on the left side
• C. Place the client in Trendelenburg position
• D. Place the client on the right side

Answer: (B)

Protecting the airway is the priority during gastric lavage in an unconscious patient. Placing the patient on the left side keeps gravity working to keep gastric contents and lavage fluid in the stomach rather than near the airway. The left-side position also helps prevent reflux toward the trachea, making aspiration less likely as the procedure proceeds. In contrast, a supine position, Trendelenburg (head down), or lying on the right side can favor movement of secretions toward the airway, increasing the risk of aspiration. So, the left-side position is the best choice to minimize aspiration during gastric lavage.

Protecting the airway is the priority during gastric lavage in an unconscious patient. Placing the patient on the left side keeps gravity working to keep gastric contents and lavage fluid in the stomach rather than near the airway. The left-side position also helps prevent reflux toward the trachea, making aspiration less likely as the procedure proceeds. In contrast, a supine position, Trendelenburg (head down), or lying on the right side can favor movement of secretions toward the airway, increasing the risk of aspiration. So, the left-side position is the best choice to minimize aspiration during gastric lavage.