Patient Position Names

Sitting

Patient sits at the edge of the exam table with feet dangling or on the floor. Nothing supports the patient’s back.

Supine (Horizontal Recumbent)

Patient lies flat on back with knees straight and arms at sides.

Dorsal Recumbent

Patient lies flat on back with knees bent and feet flat on table.

Prone

Patient lies flat on the stomach

Sims’

Patient lies on left side with leg slightly bent

Knee-chest (Knee-elbow)

Patient lies face down while they support their body with knees and chest

Fowler’s

Patient sits back on exam table with the head of table at 90 degrees

Semi-Fowler’s

Patient lies on exam table with head of table at 45 degrees

Trendelenburg

Patient is in supine position on a tilted table with head lower than legs

Lithotomy

Patient lies on their back with knees bent and their feet in stirrups