What is Sims' position and when should it be used?
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Some of the position names are less descriptive than others.The position of Sims is one of those.Sims' position is ideal for a patient in a number of scenarios.The position, its uses, and benefits will be detailed here.
Sims' position is sometimes referred to as a semi-prone position as it is halfway between prone and prone lying on the stomach.Sims' position refers to lying on the left side, so sometimes you may hear it called leftlateral Sims.
If the patient stays in this position, it is important to cushion pressure points like the knee, head, and elbow with pillows or padding.
When administering an enema, Sims' position allows for visualization of the perineum and the descending colon, which allows the fluid to flow more easily.It is also used during labor and delivery.
This position is helpful for patients who are unconscious or paralyzed.Decubitus ulcers can be caused by the pressure on the hips and sacrum of patients that cannot move.The tilt of the chest and head allows for a lower risk of aspiration.