Anatomic
This standard reference position has the body standing erect and facing forward.
What is anatomic position?
Lying flat on the back, face upward
(Physical examination or resting)
Supine
Lying on the back with hips and knees flexed and legs supported
Lithotomy
Antebrachial
Forearm
Popliteal
Back of the knee
In anatomic position, the palms face this direction.
What is forward?
Lying on the abdomen, face downward
Prone
Lying on either side
Lateral recumbent
Thoracic
Chest
Patellar
Front of the knee
In anatomic position, the arms are held in this location
What are the sides of the body?
Lying on the back with the head of the bed elevated
Fowler's
Body positioned with the head lower than the feet
Trendelenburg
Brachial
Upper arm
Crural
Lower leg
In anatomic position, the toes point in this direction.
What is forward?
Head of the bed elevated approximately 60–90 degrees
Semi-Fowler's
Cephalic
Head
Manual
Hand
Gluteal
Buttock
Why is anatomic position important in healthcare documentation?
It provides a consistent reference for describing body locations and directions.
Side-lying position, generally with the upper leg flexed forward
Sims'
Cervical
Neck
Femoral
Thigh
Umbilical
Area around the navel