Conclusions HOB elevation greater than 30º is feasible and preferred to 30º for reducing oral secretion volume, reflux, and aspiration without pressure ulcer development in gastric-fed patients receiving mechanical ventilation. More deeply sedated patients may benefit from higher HOB elevations.
elevation (20%). The median percentage of pepsin-positive
tracheal secretions was not significantly higher (P = .37) at
30º elevation (71%) than 45º elevation (67%). Deeper sedation
correlated with increased reflux (P = .03).