Supine position is lying on your back with your face and torso up. Learn when and why this position is used for medical procedures, exams, sleep, and exercises, and how to modify it for comfort and safety. The supine position (/ ˈsuːpaɪn /) means lying horizontally , with the face and torso facing up, as opposed to the prone position, which is face down. When used in surgical procedures, it grants access to the peritoneal, thoracic, and pericardial regions; as well as the head, neck, and extremities. What is the Supine Sleep Position? The supine sleep position refers to lying flat on one’s back with the face pointing upwards towards the ceiling . In this position, the body is fully extended, with arms typically resting at the sides or on the chest or abdomen. Appropriate patient position can facilitate proper physiologic function during pathophysiologic processes and access to certain anatomical locations during surgical procedures. Multiple factors should be considered when choosing the patient's position . These factors include patient age, weight, size, and past medical history, including respiratory or circulatory disorders.
