TURP Patient Positioning: What Is the Correct Position?
Proper patient positioning is an essential responsibility of the operating room (OR) nurse. During surgical procedures, the correct position provides adequate access to the operative site while helping prevent complications such as nerve injuries, pressure injuries, and impaired circulation.
One commonly tested topic in the Philippine Nurse Licensure Examination (PNLE/NLE) is the appropriate patient position for Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP).
NLE / PNLE Practice Question
Situation: In the OR, there are safety protocols that should be followed. The OR nurse should be well versed with all these to safeguard the safety and quality of patient delivery outcome.
Question: In the OR, you will position a patient for TURP in:
- Supine
- Lithotomy
- Semi-Fowler
- Trendelenburg
Correct Answer: B. Lithotomy
Rationale: Why Is Lithotomy Used for TURP?
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure commonly performed to remove obstructive prostate tissue, particularly in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The procedure involves inserting a specialized instrument called a resectoscope through the urethra to access and remove portions of the prostate tissue.
Because the surgical approach is transurethral, the surgeon needs adequate access to the urethral opening and perineal region. The lithotomy position provides the necessary exposure for the procedure.
In this position, the patient lies on the back while both legs are elevated and supported in appropriately padded leg supports. The hips and knees are flexed according to the patient's physical condition and the surgical requirements.
Important OR Nursing Responsibilities
Correct positioning is not only about providing surgical access. The OR nurse must also protect the patient from positioning-related injuries.
- Protect pressure points: Use appropriate padding to minimize pressure and prevent tissue injury.
- Prevent nerve injuries: Avoid excessive hip flexion, abduction, and external rotation.
- Maintain circulation: Monitor positioning to avoid unnecessary compression of blood vessels.
- Coordinate leg movement: When raising or lowering the legs, coordinate movements and reposition both legs carefully to reduce the risk of injury.
- Maintain patient safety: Ensure appropriate support and secure positioning throughout the procedure.
Board Exam Tip: Remember TURP and Lithotomy
For nursing board examinations, associate TURP with Lithotomy Position.
The easiest way to remember this is to understand the surgical approach:
TURP → Transurethral approach → Access to the perineal region → Lithotomy Position.
Do not confuse the lithotomy position with the supine position. Although the patient begins in a supine orientation, lithotomy involves elevating and supporting the legs to provide the required surgical exposure.
Key Takeaway
The correct position for a patient undergoing Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is LITHOTOMY POSITION. Understanding the relationship between the surgical procedure and patient positioning helps nurses make appropriate clinical decisions and promote perioperative safety.
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Disclaimer: This article is intended for nursing education and board-exam review. It is not an official PRC publication and does not replace current clinical protocols, institutional policies, or professional judgment.