During gastric lavage, which patient position helps minimize aspiration of gastric contents?

• A. Supine with head of bed flat
• B. Left side
• C. Right side
• D. Trendelenburg position

Answer: (B)

The main idea is using gravity and anatomy to keep gastric contents away from the airway during gastric lavage. Lying on the left side places the stomach in a position where any regurgitated material tends to stay in the stomach's dependent portion and is less likely to travel up toward the esophagus and airway. This orientation also makes it easier to drained gastric contents through a tube if one is in place, reducing the chance of aspiration.

In contrast, a supine position with the head flat allows contents to pool and move toward the esophagus and airway; a Trendelenburg (head-down) tilt brings contents toward the mouth and airway, increasing aspiration risk; and lying on the right side can alter gravity in a way that may favor regurgitation toward the esophagus rather than away from the airway.