Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

If a nurse asks you to place a patient in the semi-Fowler's position during tube feeding, how many degrees should the head of the bed be elevated?

1. 15 degrees

2. 30 degrees

3. 45 degrees

4. 60 degrees

The correct answer is: 30 degrees

The semi-Fowler's position involves elevating the head of the bed to an angle of approximately 30 degrees. This position is particularly beneficial during tube feeding because it helps to reduce the risk of aspiration and promotes better digestion. By maintaining this elevation, the esophagus is positioned in a way that minimizes the chances of reflux, allowing for a more comfortable and safe feeding process for the patient. In contrast, other angles like 15 degrees may not provide enough elevation for optimal safety, while 45 degrees and 60 degrees may be more in line with the Fowler's position, which is typically reserved for different clinical indications or patient comfort.