The use of the prone position in patients diagnosed with COVID-19: a systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: The new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is a disease that can generate a series of complications for the infected patient, which requires from oxygen therapies to intubation and invasive mechanical ventilation in cases that become more critical and evolved from the disease. The physiotherapist works to improve airway responses and together with the team perform positioning maneuvers in the pronation of patients with respiratory failure. Objective: To identify the use of the prone position for patients on mechanical ventilation with COVID-19. Methodology: This is a systematic review, elaborated through the PRISMA protocol, referring to the publications of the last four months on the use of the prone position for patients on mechanical ventilation with COVID-19, through the databases Medline, PubMed, Scielo, Science Direct and Springer. Results: Nine articles were selected that met the review criteria. Experts support the use of the prone position in patients with COVID-19. The maneuver, when performed correctly and by appropriate professionals, has several benefits, including the optimization of oxygenation, improving the patient's condition. Conclusion: According to the selected articles, after being submitted to the prone position, patients demonstrated decreased mortality and improved oxygenation.