What is the supine position?

The supine position refers to a body position in which a person lies flat on their back, facing upward. This position is commonly utilized in various medical and clinical settings because it allows easy access to the front of the body for examinations or procedures.

In this position, the arms are typically placed at the sides of the body, which helps maintain a neutral posture and can enhance patient comfort during assessments. The supine position is frequently used for procedures such as physical exams, surgeries in the abdominal area, and radiographic imaging, as it provides clear visibility and access for healthcare professionals.

Other options describe different positions that do not accurately reflect the definition of the supine position: lying flat on the abdomen describes the prone position, lying flat with knees bent refers to a modified supine or semi-reclined position, and lying flat over an exam table does not specify the orientation of the body, which is crucial for clarification.