What position should a pregnant woman be placed in for seizure precautions?

• A. Left side
• B. Right side
• C. Supine with head of bed elevated
• D. Prone

Answer: (A)

Place the pregnant patient on the left side (left lateral decubitus) for seizure precautions. This position helps prevent the uterus from compressing the inferior vena cava, which improves venous return and uteroplacental blood flow, supporting fetal oxygenation. Being on the side also lowers the risk of aspiration if a seizure occurs, since the airway is more easily protected in a lateral position.

The right side is also a side-lying option, but left-side positioning provides the best relief of uterine pressure on major vessels and thus the best placental perfusion. Lying flat on the back (even with the head elevated) can allow the uterus to press on the IVC, reducing maternal blood return and placental perfusion. Prone position isn’t feasible in late pregnancy.