Body Positions and Movement Terminology

Flashcards covering medical examination positions and range of motion movement terms based on the provided lecture slides.

Dorsal recumbent position

A position used to examine the vagina or rectum where the patient lies flat on the back with knees bent and feet flat on the table.

Perineal area

The area between the anus and the scrotum on the male, and between the anus and the opening to the vagina on the female.

Fowler’s position

A position often used to examine the legs and feet where the patient is seated on the table with the backrest at a $45^\text{o}$ angle and legs extended flat.

Knee-chest position

A position used to examine the rectum where the patient kneels on the table with buttocks raised, head and chest on the table, arms extended above the head with elbows bent, and head turned to one side.

Lithotomy position

A position used to examine the vagina where the patient lies on the back with hips and buttocks at table corners, legs bent, and feet in padded stirrups.

Prone position

A position used to examine the spine and legs where the patient lies on the abdomen with arms and hands to each side and head turned to the side.

Sims’ position

A left-side lying position used to examine the rectum or vagina, with lower arm bent behind the back, upper knee bent and raised toward the chest, and foot supported by a pillow.

Supine position

A position used for examination of the front of the body and breasts where the patient lies flat on the back with arms at each side.

Abduction

Moving a body part away from the midline.

Adduction

Moving a body part toward the midline.

Flexion

Bending a body part.

Extension

Straightening a body part.

Hyperextension

Excessive straightening a body part.

Rotation

Moving in a circle at a joint.

Pronation

Turning a body part downward.

Supination

Turning a body part upward.

Inversion

Turning a body part inward.

Eversion

Turning a body part outward.

Dorsiflexion

Bending backward, with a normal range of $20\text{ degrees}$.

Plantar Flexion

Bending forward.