Exam Positions

Proctologic

Also referred to as the jackknife position. Can be used as an alternative to the Sims' or knee-chest position. Patient is bent at a 90-degree angle. Can assume this position by standing and bending at the hips til chest is resting on the table. Can also lie prone on the table which is then raised in the middle with both ends pointing down. Draped with a fenestrated drape.

Dorsal Recumbent

Patient lies face-up, with his back supporting all the weight. (Knees bent) Physician can examine the head, neck, chest, and heart. Usually draped from the neck or underarm down to the feet.

Lithotomy

Patient lies flat on her back with he knees bent and feet in stirrups. Used for examining the female genitalia. Use large drape from breasts to ankles.

Supine Position (Recumbent)

Patient lies flat on the back with the hands to the side. Physician can examine the head, neck, chest, heart, abdomen, arms, and legs. Usually draped from the neck or underarm down to the feet.

Prone

Patient lies flat on the table face-down. Head to one side and arms at side or bent at elbows. Draped from upper back to feet.

Fowler's

Patient lies on an examining table on which the head is elevated at a 45-degree angle. can examine head, neck, and chest. Usually draped from neck or underarms to feet.

Sims'

Patient lies on slide with left leg slightly bent, and left arm placed behind the back so that patients weight is primarily rested on patients chest. Right knee is bent and raised towards the chest, and right arm is is bent and raised toward the head for support. Used for anal or rectal and may also be used for perineal and certain pelvic exams. Draped from upper back to feet.

Knee-Chest

Patient lies on the table face-down, supporting the body with the knees and chest. Thighs should be at a 90-degree angle to the table and slightly separated. Head is turned to one side with arms to sides or above head. For the examination of the anal and perineal area and during some proctologic procedures. Draped with a fenestrated drape. Hard position for those who are pregnant, elderly, or obese.

Sitting Position

Patient sits at the edge of the examining table without back support. Used for Physician to examine head, neck, chest, heart, back,and arms. Draped across the lap for men and across chest and lap for women.

Knee-Elbow

Similar to Knee-Chest with the exception of using knees and elbows for support rather than knees and chest. Draped with a fenestrated drape.