Optimal positioning for airway clearance techniques to enhance ventilation to obstructed regions of the lung
| Optimal position | Alternative, second-choice position | |
| Secretions in upper lobes | Supine | Side lying |
| Secretions in middle lobe and lingula | Upright | Side lying or supine |
| Secretions in right lung | Adults: right-side lying Children: left-side lying | |
| Secretions in left lung | Adults: left-side lying Children: right-side lying | |
| Secretions in lower lobes | Upright | Side lying |