The effect of prone position on oxygen saturation, blood gas parameters, and respiratory rate in intensive care patients with COVID-19-induced ARDS

This study aimed to evaluate the short-term effect of prone positioning on oxygen saturation, arterial blood gas parameters, and respiratory rate in intensive care patients with COVID-19-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This randomized experimental study used a six-measure time series design with control and intervention groups. A total of 90 intubated patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and ARDS were enrolled, with 45 patients in the experimental group and 45 in the control group. The experimental group received a 30-minute prone positioning session, while no intervention was applied to the control group. Data were collected using a Demographic Information Form and a structured form to record oxygen saturation, blood gas parameters, and respiratory rate. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT06997666; first posted on 28/05/2025). Age and gender were comparable between groups (p > 0.05). Patients in the experimental group demonstrated higher mean values of peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO₂), arterial oxygen saturation (SaO₂), and partial pressure of oxygen (PaO₂), along with lower PaCO₂ and respiratory rates. No significant changes were observed in sodium or lactate levels. All effects observed were immediate and short-term. No adverse events or unintended effects were reported. A single short-duration session of prone positioning resulted in immediate physiological improvements in oxygenation, ventilation parameters, and respiratory rate in patients with COVID-19-related ARDS. Further studies are needed to assess long-term clinical outcomes and sustained benefits.