What is the definition of the prone position?

The prone position is defined as lying face down. This position is often used in various medical scenarios, such as during physical examinations, certain therapeutic interventions, or in emergency situations when a patient's condition requires them to be placed flat on their stomach. The prone position can be beneficial in situations involving respiratory distress, as it can improve oxygenation in certain patients.

In contrast, lying on the back facing upward would be referred to as the supine position, while sitting at a 45-degree angle does not define a specific anatomical position relevant to this context. Lying on either side would describe the lateral position, which is also distinct from the prone position. Therefore, defining the prone position accurately emphasizes its importance in both patient care and emergency response scenarios.