In what position should a comatose client be placed during a gastric lavage?

The appropriate position for a comatose client during gastric lavage is lateral. This position helps ensure that any fluids introduced during the lavage process can properly drain from the stomach, minimizing the risk of aspiration. By placing the client on their side, gravity aids in the flow of fluid and any remaining stomach contents out of the stomach through the nasogastric tube, thereby reducing the likelihood of the client inhaling those contents into the lungs.

Moreover, the lateral position is particularly important for a comatose patient because it provides a safety measure against aspiration, which is a major concern in individuals who cannot protect their airway effectively. If the patient were placed in a supine position, the risk of aspiration would increase since any regurgitated gastric contents could easily enter the airway. Other positions like Trendelenburg's or lithotomy serve no purpose in the context of gastric lavage for a comatose client and do not support the safe and effective administration of the procedure.