North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The best position for a patient experiencing nausea and vomiting is the position of comfort. This position allows the patient to choose a posture that alleviates their symptoms. Many patients find relief in positions that help reduce the sensation of nausea, which may include sitting upright or leaning forward. The position of comfort takes into consideration the subjective nature of each patient's experience and allows for adjustments according to their specific level of distress.

The supine position could exacerbate feelings of nausea since lying flat may put pressure on the stomach. The Trendelenburg position, where the legs are elevated above the head, is not suitable for managing nausea and may even increase discomfort by promoting feelings of queasiness. The seated position can be beneficial, but it may not address the patient's need for individual comfort, which is why the position of comfort is prioritized. Optionally, allowing the patient to dictate their posture provides essential support during an uncomfortable experience.