Abstract
[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the respiratory function and respiratory muscle strength in the different body positions in order to find the posture in which it is easiest to cough up secretions or endotracheal aspirate. [Subjects] Fifteen non-smoking healthy women participated. All subjects gave their written consent to the study. [Methods] We measured respiratory muscle strength and respiratory function in three postures: sitting, supine, and 45 degree rotative prone. [Results] Vital capacity, forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in one second, and peak expiratory flow were marginally lower in 45 degree rotative prone. Percent of forced expiratory volume in one second was significantly lower in supine compared with sitting (p<0.05). [Conclusion] Our results suggest that 45 degree rotative prone is effective for coughing up secretions and endotracheal aspirate as well as the sitting position in young female subjects.
