Medical Emergencies · single question
What is the appropriate chair position for a patient with COPD during dental treatment?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Semi-supine / upright seated
- A. Correct. COPD patients should be treated SEMI-SUPINE to UPRIGHT. These patients rely on accessory respiratory muscles and are often orthopneic; an upright posture lets the diaphragm descend freely and maximizes functional residual capacity. Also avoid rubber dam if it worsens the sense of breathlessness, keep supplemental oxygen low-flow, and avoid respiratory depressants.
- B. Trendelenburg pushes abdominal contents against the diaphragm and is strongly contraindicated.
- C. Supine positioning compresses the diaphragm by abdominal contents and worsens dyspnea in COPD patients.
- D. Left lateral decubitus is used for pregnant patients with supine hypotensive syndrome, not for COPD.
Practice Medical Emergencies questions Medical Emergencies study notes