Neurologic
| ↑ ICP | HOB 30°, head midline/neutral |
| After lumbar puncture | flat / supine |
| Unconscious / seizure | side-lying (recovery) |
Respiratory / Cardiac
| Dyspnea / left-sided HF | high Fowler's |
| COPD | tripod / high Fowler's |
| Prevent aspiration | semi- to high Fowler's |
Emergencies
| Air embolism | left lateral + Trendelenburg |
| Shock | legs elevated (mod. Trendelenburg) |
| Autonomic dysreflexia | high Fowler's (sit UP) |
OB
| Pregnant (vena cava) | left lateral |
| Cord prolapse | knee-chest / Trendelenburg |
Post-op / Procedures
| Post-tonsillectomy | side-lying / prone |
| After liver biopsy | right side-lying |
| Total hip replacement | abduction, no flexion >90° |
GI / Tube
| After NG feeding / GERD | HOB 30–45° |
| Enema / rectal | left Sims' |
| Postural drainage | gravity-dependent |
Educational quick-reference only; values/ranges vary by source. Verify against your facility and the current NCSBN test plan.
© NCLEX Deck