RN Exam Practice
Basic Care and ComfortQuestion 2334 of 2368

The nurse places a pregnant client in the lateral position. What is the purpose of this position?

  1. To promote lung expansion and improve oxygenation in the pregnant client
  2. To prevent inferior vena cava compression and improve blood flow to the fetus
  3. To make it easier to give an enema or examine the perineal area
  4. To lower the heart rate by reducing blood flow to the legs
Show answer

Correct answer: To prevent inferior vena cava compression and improve blood flow to the fetus

The lateral position is often used in pregnancy to prevent inferior vena cava compression and enhance blood flow to the fetus.

Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Mobility: Lateral Position. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Basic Care and Comfort"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026