Which statement accurately describes the approach to postural drainage for COPD?

Which statement accurately describes the approach to postural drainage for COPD?

• A. Instruct the client to breathe shallow and fast
• B. Explain that the client may be placed in five positions
• C. Obtain ABGs prior to procedure
• D. Drainage immediately after meals

Answer: (B)

Postural drainage relies on gravity to move secretions by positioning the patient in several specific positions so that mucus from different lung regions drains toward the larger airways to be coughed up. In COPD care, a typical plan uses multiple positions—often around five—to target the upper, middle, and lower lung segments. This is why describing that the client may be placed in five positions accurately reflects the approach. During the procedure, breathing is generally slow and deep with controlled exhalations to help mobilize secretions, rather than shallow and fast breathing. Obtaining arterial blood gases before postural drainage isn’t a standard requirement; monitoring oxygenation and comfort is more typical. Also, drainage isn’t performed immediately after meals due to the risk of reflux or aspiration, so allowing time after meals is advised.

Postural drainage relies on gravity to move secretions by positioning the patient in several specific positions so that mucus from different lung regions drains toward the larger airways to be coughed up. In COPD care, a typical plan uses multiple positions—often around five—to target the upper, middle, and lower lung segments. This is why describing that the client may be placed in five positions accurately reflects the approach.

During the procedure, breathing is generally slow and deep with controlled exhalations to help mobilize secretions, rather than shallow and fast breathing. Obtaining arterial blood gases before postural drainage isn’t a standard requirement; monitoring oxygenation and comfort is more typical. Also, drainage isn’t performed immediately after meals due to the risk of reflux or aspiration, so allowing time after meals is advised.