RN Exam Practice
Basic Care and ComfortQuestion 2335 of 2368

A client with breathing difficulty is sitting and leaning forward with their elbows on their knees. Which position should the nurse identify?

  1. Semi-Fowler's position
  2. Sim's position
  3. Tripod position
  4. Lateral position
Show answer

Correct answer: Tripod position

Leaning forward while seated with the elbows on the knees or on a table is the tripod position. Clients with breathing difficulty often assume it to improve air exchange.

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

Practice the topic "Basic Care and Comfort"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026