ARDS, also known as an acute pulmonary disease, is a serious issue that is caused by a vast range of serious illnesses and/or lung trauma. While there are many ways that ARDS is treated, perhaps the most efficient and cost-effective way to increase lung oxygenation is by placing patients in the prone position, which is achieved through the use of professional prone positioning devices.
Here are some of your common questions about prone positioning and ARDS, answered:
How does prone positioning help my patients with ARDS?
The simple answer is that it increases oxygenation to the lungs. By placing patients in the prone position, the lungs are expanded and the redistribution of lung fluids occurs which takes the pressure off the posterior regions of the lungs and increases overall lung capacity.
How many members of my surgical staff does it require to achieve prone positioning?
This all depends on the prone positioning equipment that you have and the size of your patients. As a general rule, heavier patients (280lbs and up) take about 4 medical staff members to safely place in the prone position. Regardless, your prone positioning devices need to be able to accommodate patients of all sizes when positioning for ARDS.
When positioning for ARDS, what’s the difference between the prone position and lateral position?
While lateral patient positioning (turning patients onto one side) can help to prevent pneumonia, it’s proven that the prone position decreases the dead space in the lungs that ultimately improves oxygen flow.
At KLM Medical Equipment we are proud to provide quality medical equipment and devices, including prone positioning equipment, to hospitals and medical facilities throughout the nation. Using our strong relationships with top medical equipment suppliers such as Logiquip, Match Grade, Care Surgical, and more, we are dedicated to connecting you with the positioning devices that enable you to provide your patients and safe with the utmost safety and care.
Staying current on the latest trends and technologies in the business, we’ve kept up with the latest advancements to provide our clients with the best prone positioning equipment at the best price. Get in touch with us today by calling 913-449-3665 for more details on our positioning equipment and technology.