What position should a patient be in for feeding if they cannot get out of bed?

A patient who cannot get out of bed should be positioned in Fowler's position for feeding. This position involves sitting the patient up at an angle, typically between 30 to 90 degrees, which promotes easier swallowing and reduces the risk of aspiration during meals. Being upright helps to keep the airway clear, allows gravity to assist in the digestion process, and provides a comfortable setting for the patient while they eat.

The supine position, where the patient lies flat on their back, is generally not advisable for feeding since it can increase the risk of aspiration, particularly in patients with swallowing difficulties. The prone position, where the patient lies on their stomach, is also inappropriate for feeding for similar reasons, as it obstructs the airway and makes it difficult for the patient to swallow safely. Since neither of these positions provides the necessary support during feeding, Fowler's position is clearly the best choice among the options.