How should a pregnant patient who is afraid of needles be positioned to manage stress effectively?

• A. Supine position
• B. Sitting upright
• C. Trendelenburg position
• D. Standing position

Answer: (C)

To effectively manage stress in a pregnant patient who has a fear of needles, the Trendelenburg position is beneficial as it involves the patient lying flat on her back with her legs elevated. This position can help alleviate anxiety and create a feeling of safety and support, which is especially important for a patient experiencing stress and fear. Elevating the legs can promote venous return and may also help in reducing feelings of lightheadedness or anxiety that can accompany the sensation of panic.

In contrast, the supine position, while similar to Trendelenburg, does not provide the additional elevation of the lower extremities, which can be helpful for circulatory reasons and may not be as comforting for the patient. Sitting upright can be an option that provides a sense of control, but it might not adequately address feelings of anxiety as effectively as the Trendelenburg position does. The standing position is generally not recommended as it can lead to increased feelings of vulnerability and may exacerbate stress in someone with a fear of needles.

Thus, the Trendelenburg position combines physical comfort with psychological reassurance, making it the optimal choice for managing stress in this scenario.