What it means
The opposite tilt to the Trendelenburg position, both named after Friedrich Trendelenburg, a German surgeon. Tipping the whole bed head-up lets the abdominal organs fall away from the diaphragm, which helps breathing and gives surgeons a better view in upper abdominal, laparoscopic, head and neck, and bariatric surgery. It is also used for clients who must keep the head raised but cannot bend at the hips.
For the nurse
Use a padded footboard so the client does not slide down, and watch for low blood pressure as blood pools in the legs. Tilt the bed slowly.
At a glance
| Also written | reverse Trendelenburg |
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Related terms
hypotension
Blood pressure lower than normal, generally below 90/60 mm Hg in an adult.
anesthesia
Loss of feeling or sensation, often brought on by drugs so that surgery or a procedure can be done without pain.
supine
Lying flat on the back, face up.