The COVID cases witnessed during the second wave of COVID pandemic has symptoms somewhat similar to the cases witnessed in the first wave, however with the addition of gastrointestinal issues and rashes for the newer variants of the virus. This time what horrified the patients more was the sudden dip in oxygen level in the covid patients.

Well, COVID patients admitted to the hospital, if faces such sudden low level of oxygen he/she can be given oxygen immediately, but we knew the fact that during the second wave of COVID, there are number of patients who are treating themselves in home isolation. Basically, what to do if a patient in home isolation faces a sudden dip in oxygen level.

Keeping this in mind Union Health Ministry advised 'proning for self-care' for coronavirus patients, stating that it holds high significance for covid positive patients with compromised breathing comfort, especially during home isolation or self-care treatment at home. 

Let us know about this Proning Practice in details!

What is Proning? 

Proning is simply a process or practice, in which the patient is laid down from his face side, on the support of their stomach. This position is considered much helpful in improving breathing comforts and help improve oxygen level Covid-19 patients especially during home isolation.

How Does Proning Help COVID Patients?  

When patients get in proning position, their dorsal (back) lung regions, get better expansion, this position improves body movement and help in removal of secretions that may lead to advances in oxygenation or give breathing comforts.

Studies and researches says that proning is pivotal for some patients who experience mild respiratory distress and do not need a ventilator. Practice proning position for such patients help prevent the situation of severe respiratory discomfort and ultimately help improve oxygen level.

However, it is important to note that there is no scientific evidence that proves, proning practice, help mitigate the need of ventilator for covid patients rather it just improves the oxygen levels temporarily in patients suffering from mild COVID-19 symptoms.

How To Place Yourself Perfectly In Proning Position? 

To place yourself perfectly in proning position one would require 4-6 pillows place in following ways:

Position 1: Place a pillow below the neck.

Position 2: Place 1 or 2 pillows below the chest and upper thighs.

Position 3: Place 2 pillows below the shins.

Position 4: Place 1 pillow below the head.

Steps to Carry out Proning Process……….

The patient usually undergoes a series of manual turns that are done in a synchronized pattern. This includes:

Step 1: Turn the patient in the prone position (i.e., lying on the belly).

Step 2: Next turn the patient laterally (i.e., sideways) on the right side.

Step 3: Then make the patient sit up with the spine straight.

Step 4: Next turn the patient laterally (i.e., sideways) on the left side.

Step 5: Finally, turn the patient to the initial prone position.

Step 6: Alternate the position every 30 minutes.

Step 7: Each position requires the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure and pulse oximetry (oxygenation level) to remain stable during each move.

Step 8: It is advisable not to spend more than 30 minutes in each position.

When And Who Should Not Practice Proning? 

Experts say, that proning practice must be restricted or prohibited directly after having a meal. However, one can practice proning at least after 1 hour of taking the meal.

• Proning practice is restricted to the following people:
• Pregnant women
• Person having cardiac issues or unstable spine
• People having pelvic fractures, open wounds, burns or tracheal surgery

These people can practice only after a critical care physician and/or a pulmonologist clarifies or prescribe that the patient can undergo proning practice or process.

Stay Informed! Get Vaccinated! Stay Safe! 

Thank you!