Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Prone Positioning

Acute respiratory distress syndrome continues to have high morbidity and mortality despite more than 50 years of research. The Berlin definition in 2012 established risk stratification based on degree of hypoxemia and the use of positive end-expiratory pressure. The use of prone positioning as a treatment modality has been studied for more than 40 years, with recent studies showing an improvement in oxygenation and decreased mortality. The studies also provide evidence to support the methodology and length of treatment time. Recent guidelines include several ventilator strategies for acute respiratory distress syndrome, including prone positioning. Protocols and procedures discussed in this article ensure successful prone repositioning and prevention of complications related to the procedure itself.