What it means
The most upright of the Fowler positions (Fowler's is about 45 to 60 degrees and semi-Fowler's about 30 to 45). Sitting up lets the lungs expand more fully, eases breathing and helps with eating and swallowing. The position is named after George Ryerson Fowler, an American surgeon of the late 1800s.
For the nurse
Use it for clients who are short of breath, during meals and tube feedings, and to lower aspiration risk. Because more weight rests on the tailbone and heels, check those areas for pressure, and support the arms and feet.
At a glance
| Also written | high Fowler's, high Fowler's position, high Fowler’s, high Fowler’s position, high-Fowler, high-Fowler's position |
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Related terms
dyspnea
Difficult or labored breathing, or the feeling of not getting enough air.
orthopnea
Difficulty breathing when lying flat that eases when sitting or standing up.
Fowler position
A sitting-up position in bed, with the head of the bed raised between 45 and 90 degrees.
semi-Fowler position
A position in which the client lies on the back with the head of the bed raised about 30 to 45 degrees.