What is a key requirement when performing postural drainage?

The key requirement when performing postural drainage is to base the positioning on individual clinical assessment findings. This allows healthcare providers to tailor the treatment to the specific needs of the patient and their respiratory condition. Each patient's anatomy, the location of secretions, and their overall health status can vary significantly, necessitating personalized positioning to achieve effective drainage of lung segments.

By assessing the patient’s clinical situation, including factors like the presence of any recent surgeries, specific lung issues, or complications, healthcare providers can determine the optimal positions to facilitate drainage while minimizing discomfort or risk to the patient. This individualized approach enhances the effectiveness of the therapy and promotes better outcomes.

In contrast, choosing to position a patient for drainage of all lung segments without individualized assessment may not address specific needs and could even lead to complications in some scenarios. Additionally, recommendations regarding duration and timing, such as positioning for 45 minutes or disregarding meal times, are secondary to the necessity of adapting the treatment approach based on each patient's unique clinical findings and circumstances.