What is the correct postural position for drainage of the right lateral segment?

The postural drainage technique for the right lateral segment of the lung is most effective when the individual is positioned properly to facilitate gravity-assisted drainage. The correct positioning involves placing the patient on their left side with the head of the bed (HOB) down.

Positioning the patient on the left side effectively allows for drainage from the right lateral segment due to the anatomical location of the right lung and the bronchial tree. By tilting the HOB down, gravity helps to enhance the movement of secretions from the right side of the lungs towards the main airways, facilitating expectoration.

In this scenario, the inclination of the head down and the body positioned on the left ensures that the right lung segments can drain effectively. The degree of incline typically recommended (18 inches down) is appropriate for optimizing drainage without causing discomfort or compromising the patient's ability to breathe.

Therefore, this positioning maximizes the potential for clearing secretions from the right lateral segment of the lung, which aligns with standard practices for postural drainage therapy.