Semi-fower position really helps abdominal pain?

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Hi guys

I just got feedback from two essays. I addressed position change for reducing abdominal pain and dyspnoea, but my mentor commented that i have to be more specific about positions.

I know generally semi-fower can help pain, but all my textbooks don't specifically point that out.

I think palliating factor is depends on each patient. I actually wrote "adjust position to comfort." What i mean by that is let the patient choose which position suits them.

I just want to know from your experience. Is the semi-fower position the universal solution for abdominal pain? Any exceptions?

Thank you

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Well, this is an interesting question. I think you would need to know the cause first. If its liver pain, I think laying on the right side may help if I remember correctly and someone correct me if im wrong. Laying on the left side can help gas or bowel pains. Laying on side with pillow between knees is good for back pain, sitting up in semi to high fowler could be appropriate for acid reflux pain but if they are SOB they should be sitting up.

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Specializes in Hospice.

Certainly not gall bladder pain, I can tell you that from experience.

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Specializes in ER, TRAUMA, MED-SURG.
Certainly not gall bladder pain I can tell you that from experience.[/quote']

I agree - also not helpful for pancreatitis.

Anne, RNC

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

I've only send semi-fowler help with reflux/GERD but side lying or even prone more effective for most other pain/discomfort of GI origin with the exception of gas or constipation as movement /ambulation is often helpful.

For dyspnea, high fowlers or leaning slightly forward with arms extended over a high tray table to expand the lungs. Hard to describe but it works.

I've had gallbladder pain, post lap choley pancreatic duct spasms, sphincter of odii spasms and if you encouraged me to sit in semi-fowlers it would have been a bad scene if you were even able to reposition me.

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PACU.

Curled in a fetal ball was how I dealt with gallbladder pain lol

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

Fowler's or semi-Fowler's position. This position relaxes the abdominal muscles and reduces pain.

http://www.brooksidepress.org/Products/Nursing_Fundamentals_II/lesson_8_Section_4A.htm

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