This JAMA Patient Page describes the technique of prone positioning during acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the possible benefits of prone positioning for patients hospitalized with COVID-19, and the risks involved. Prone positioning (PP) has been used since the 1970s to improve oxygenation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Beyond its oxygenation benefits, PP plays a crucial role in the prevention of ventilator-induced lung injury and preservation or improvement of hemodynamics, leading to reduced mortality in selected ARDS patients. This article aims to provide a concise overview of key pathophysiological findings, supporting evidence, and practical considerations with PP ... What is Prone Position? Prone positioning has gained a lot of popularity over past years, mainly owing to its ability to enhance oxygenation in the acute respiratory distress syndrome patients, which leads to a decrease in mortality. Various studies and experiments have been conducted that suggest its efficacy to achieve the above-mentioned objectives (1, 2). The prone position was introduced in 1974 by Bryan as […] Prone positioning—sometimes called “positioning prone”— makes it easier to breathe for some patients with respiratory conditions, from COVID-19 to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
