A patient in Fowler's position, with student nurses adjusting supports

Date:: 22 May 1940

Reference:: MED01/01/0759

Type:: Photograph (Print)

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Description

The original caption may contain language which is historic and which may no longer be considered appropriate. It has been retained in the record in the interest of historical accuracy.

The caption on the reverse of the photograph reads: “Prevention and treatment of pressure & friction. Picture shows a patient on her side in Fowler’s position, with knee pillow and toe and heel rings in place. The two nurses are adjusting the webbing straps that hold the ‘donkey’ in position. (Demonstration by Nth. M’sex Cty Hosp. student nurses)”

Named after George Ryerson Fowler, who published his findings on “the elevated head and trunk posture” in 1900, Fowler’s position is used to promote oxygenation by allowing maximum chest expansion, relaxing the abdominal muscles and alleviating compression of the chest. The patient sits supported in a semi-upright position of 45-60 degrees in bed, with the knees either bent or straight. The location in which this photograph was taken is unknown. See also MED01/01/0760-0763. High-resolution copies of this image are available for free for non-commercial use. Please Enquire to place an order.

Content

This is part of the Series: MED01/01 Series of prints; within the Collection: MED01 Topical Press Agency Medical Collection

Rights

Source: Historic England Archive

People & Organisations

Photographer: Topical Press Agency Limited

Photographer: Harrison, Norman Kingsley

Keywords

Hospital, Education, Women's History, Health And Welfare