What is the typical position for a patient undergoing a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

What is the typical position for a patient undergoing a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

• A. Supine position
• B. Prone position
• C. Left lateral position
• D. Right lateral position

Answer: (C)

The typical position for a patient undergoing a flexible sigmoidoscopy is the left lateral position. This position is optimal because it allows for better access to the sigmoid colon, as it aligns the bowel in a way that reduces the likelihood of kinks and facilitates the passage of the endoscope. In the left lateral position, gravity helps to fill the rectum, making it easier for the clinician to visualize the area of interest. It also provides comfort for the patient while allowing the necessary anatomical structures to be properly aligned for examination. The other positions may not be as effective for this specific procedure. For example, the supine position could hinder access to the sigmoid colon and complicate the procedure. The prone position may facilitate access to other parts of the colon, but it is less suitable for sigmoidoscopy specifically. The right lateral position, while sometimes used for other examinations, is also not the standard for flexible sigmoidoscopy. Thus, the left lateral position is preferred for both anatomical and comfort reasons during this endoscopic procedure.

The typical position for a patient undergoing a flexible sigmoidoscopy is the left lateral position. This position is optimal because it allows for better access to the sigmoid colon, as it aligns the bowel in a way that reduces the likelihood of kinks and facilitates the passage of the endoscope. In the left lateral position, gravity helps to fill the rectum, making it easier for the clinician to visualize the area of interest. It also provides comfort for the patient while allowing the necessary anatomical structures to be properly aligned for examination.

The other positions may not be as effective for this specific procedure. For example, the supine position could hinder access to the sigmoid colon and complicate the procedure. The prone position may facilitate access to other parts of the colon, but it is less suitable for sigmoidoscopy specifically. The right lateral position, while sometimes used for other examinations, is also not the standard for flexible sigmoidoscopy. Thus, the left lateral position is preferred for both anatomical and comfort reasons during this endoscopic procedure.