Proning has been validated as a home remedy for improving Oxygen, by the Central Health Ministry. Proning will improve oxygenation substantially for patients who are in home quarantine and face difficulty in maintaining the recommended Oxyegn levels. It is highly recommended that once the level reaches 94 or below, immediate care has to be taken and Proning has to be resorted to.

Education Secretary Vaibhav Galeriya said that the exponential rise in COVID patients across the state and many parts of India demands that patients who are in home quarantine, utlise this technique to improve oxygenation, if they notice even a minimal fall in the oxygen levels. This technique has been established to have a 80% efficacy rate.

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Dr Sudhir Bhandari, Principal of SMS Medical College, Jaipur, giving the above information, has also said this medical proven technique results in better ventilation which will be useful in saving lives.

Proning Technique

Dr Bhandari explained that the patient needs to lie on his stomach for a period between 30 minutes to 2 hrs. This results in better flow of blood to the lungs, resulting in oxygen supply to the lungs and efficient working of the organs. Proning requires 4-5 pillows. First, the patient needs to lie down on the stomach. One pillow needs to be placed below the neck. 2 or more pillow need to be placed below the shoulder, upper chest and below the stomach. Two pillows need to be placed below the feet. The patient then needs to take deep breaths while in this position, for a period of 30 minutes to 2 hours. Care has to be taken that the patient needs to change position during this period. The patient can sleep on the left side and right side alternatively, with the pillows remaining in their position.

Do's and Dont's of Proning

Dr Bhandari warned that this technique should NOT be effected immediately after meals. This can be done across 16 hours in different frequencies that make the patient comfortable. Pressure points need to be changed by moving the pillows. Pregnant ladies, patients with acute cardiac issues, those with spine problems and those who have suffered from pelvic fractures should avoid Proning.