Which position is NOT listed as a position to site a patient in for stoma marking?

• A. Prone
• B. Sitting
• C. Standing
• D. Lying

Answer: (D)

When marking a stoma site, you want to choose a location based on how the abdomen looks and functions in positions you’ll actually wear clothes and perform daily activities in. The process is aimed at finding a spot that will be comfortable, accessible, and durable as you move around.

In practice, clinicians assess the abdomen in upright or semi-upright positions—standing or sitting—to see how gravity, belt lines, clothing, and everyday movement affect the contour and fit of the ostomy appliance. Some clinicians may also consider a prone view in certain cases, but the important point is to evaluate the site in positions that reflect real life.

Lying flat (supine) is not typically used as a listed position for marking because it changes the abdominal contour differently than when upright, which can lead to selecting a site that doesn’t sit well when the patient is standing or active.