In what position should the patient be placed when treating an air embolism?

When treating an air embolism, the optimal position for the patient is on their left side in the Trendelenburg position. This positioning is critical because it helps to minimize the risk of the air embolism traveling to the brain and other vital organs.

By positioning the patient on their left side, gravity assists in keeping the air bubble in the right atrium and the right ventricle, which reduces the chance of it passing into the pulmonary circulation and potentially causing a catastrophic event such as a stroke or cardiac arrest. The Trendelenburg position, where the legs are elevated above the level of the head, further enhances venous return and can help with hemodynamic stability in an emergency situation.

Overall, employing this specific positioning strategy is a key practice in managing an air embolism, thereby improving the chances of a positive patient outcome.