Which body position is commonly used for patients in respiratory distress?

The correct answer is Fowler's position, which is utilized for patients in respiratory distress due to its ability to enhance lung expansion and facilitate easier breathing. In Fowler's position, the patient is seated and leaning slightly back, often at an angle between 30 to 90 degrees. This position helps decrease pressure on the diaphragm from abdominal organs, allowing for improved chest expansion and making it easier for patients to take deeper, more effective breaths.

While sitting upright may also aid in breathing, Fowler's position is specifically designed for medical care and provides both support and comfort for patients experiencing respiratory issues. The supine position, where a patient lies flat on their back, can increase the work of breathing and is not suitable for those who are struggling for air. The Trendelenburg position, where the patient is tilted with their head down, may be used in certain medical emergencies but is not advisable for respiratory distress, as it can impede lung function and worsen breathing difficulties.