Body position is known to influence respiratory function in normal subjects & those with
respiratory pathology. Its effect on respiratory function after stroke has received little attention.
It's generally thought that stroke morbidity is increased by appropriate decision early recovery
phase. So the present study was designed to identify changes in arterial oxygen saturation (Sa02)
associated with different four positions of the patient in order to detect proper position which
maintain the optimal level of Sa02. Quasiexperiment research design was applied in this study.
This study was conducted in stroke intensive care unit of neurological department of Assiut
University Hospitals. The subjects of this study consist of 60 patients with acute ischemic stroke
within 48 hours following mild to moderate and severe stroke. Three tools were included in the
study, tool of sociodemographic data, tool of the positions, & tool of the Scandinavian stroke
scale. The result of the present study revealed that there was statistical significant difference
between Sa02 & blood pressure of the patient before & after the positions. It was found also that
total mean of Sa02 during right side, supine & semi sitting positions was nearly equal and that
there was statistical significant difference between left position and 3 other positions. So the study
recommended the importance of changing patient's positions which improve ventilation & blood
pressure. The importance of the use of positions tested CRt. Side, supine & semi sitting positions)
in the clinical practice to maintain Sa02 in patients with ischemic stroke.