Postural Drainage Positions

What position drains the apical segments of both upper lobes?

• Sitting

• Lean back 30–40°

• Percuss/vibrate above clavicles

What position drains the posterior upper-lobe segments?

• Turn ¼ from prone

• Opposite side depending on lung being drained

• Percuss around medial border of scapula

What position drains the anterior segments of both upper lobes?

• Supine

• Bed horizontal

• Percuss below clavicles

What position drains the right middle lobe or left lingula?

• Turn ¼ from supine

• Foot of bed elevated 12 inches

• Percuss between axilla and nipple

What position drains the superior segments of the lower lobes?

• Prone

• Bed horizontal

• Percuss below inferior border of scapulae

What position drains the anterior basal lower-lobe segments?

• Supine

• Foot of bed elevated 18 inches

• Percuss over lower ribs

What position drains the posterior basal lower-lobe segments?

• Prone

• Foot of bed elevated 18 inches

• Percuss over lower ribs

What position drains the lateral basal lower-lobe segments?

• Side-lying

• Foot of bed elevated 18 inches

• Percuss over lower ribs

• Lie on opposite side of lung being drained