Does Prone Position in Covid-19 Patients Improve Hypoxemia and Outcomes

Authors

Kelli M. Fabela, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Infectious Disease

Advisor

Tom Colletti, DHSc, PA-C Emeritus, DFAAPA

Abstract

In hospitalized patients with Covid-19, how effective is the prone position compared to the supine position in the early stages of hospitalization in reducing the severity of hypoxemia, preventing intubation, and reducing the mortality rate? Prior to the Covid pandemic, pronation therapy using the RotoProne bed in sedated and intubated intensive care unit (ICU) patients has been a promising tool in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Awake-prone position has been a non-pharmacological adjunct therapy used early in hospitalized Covid-19 patients who displayed hypoxemia and required supplemental oxygen. The Covid-19 pandemic has made clinicians consider the effectiveness of the prone position in awake non-intubated patients.

Recommended Citation

Fabela KM. Does Prone Position in Covid-19 Patients Improve Hypoxemia and Outcomes. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2023; 5(2).