Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

During an emergency situation, what position should the patient be laid in?

1. Sitting upright

2. On their side

3. Flat

4. With their feet elevated

The correct answer is: Flat

In an emergency situation, placing the patient flat is often the most appropriate position to ensure optimal blood flow and oxygenation to vital organs. When a patient is laid flat, it can help in scenarios involving shock, as this position aids in promoting venous return to the heart, thereby improving cardiac output. This is critical in emergencies where the patient may be experiencing low blood pressure or reduced circulation. Additionally, laying a patient flat minimizes strain on the cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of airway compromise. It allows for easier management of respiratory issues, as gravity does not interfere with pulmonary blood flow. For patients experiencing trauma, this position can also facilitate access for necessary interventions. While other positions may be beneficial depending on specific circumstances—such as sitting upright for respiratory distress, lying on the side for unconscious patients to help prevent choking, or elevating the feet for those experiencing shock—laying flat often serves as a foundational supportive position in a variety of emergency situations to stabilize the patient's condition.