MIRA - Wk 12

Patient Positions

Erect (standing) - extra attention needed to ensure patient remains stable

Seated - helps stabilise patient

Supine (lying face up) - easiest to maintain patient stability

Prone (lying face down)

Lateral/ Decubitus (on side)

Head or feet first (into scanner)

Positioning and Stabilisation - Purpose

Designated area must be irradiated to display correct anatomy

Minimise movement to avoid image blur

Reduce irradiation to surrounding tissues that are not part of diagnosis/treatment area

Needs to be repeatable

Reduce need for repeat images

Stabilisation and positioning - Points to consider

Know what position patient should be in

Patient comfort

Patient’s mobility (age, claustrophobia etc)

Necessary equipment

How long patient needs to remain stable

If assistance from other staff is needed

If patient’s physiological functions (breathing) must be controlled

Stabilisation and positioning - RT Equipment

Limb moulds

Head rests and masks

Hand holds

Knee blocks

Stabilisation and positioning - Values/Qualities

empathy

accuracy

safety

informed consent

patient-centred care