A nurse is reviewing the plan of care for a client who has a respiratory infection. The nurse should plan to have the client lie on his stomach with pillows elevating his chest and stomach to mobilize secretion from which of the following lung segments?

When a client with a respiratory infection is instructed to lie on their stomach with pillows elevating the chest and stomach, the rationale for this position is to effectively mobilize secretions from specific lung segments. In the case of the posterior segment of the right middle lobe, this position enhances drainage by allowing gravity to assist in moving mucus from the segment toward the central airways where it can be coughed out or suctioned if necessary.

The posterior segment of the right middle lobe specifically benefits from this positioning because it is located in a way that lying supine would not optimally facilitate drainage. By encouraging the client to lie facedown, the nurse leverages gravity to help direct any pooled secretions toward the larger airways, making it easier for the client to clear them.

Positioning strategies are important in respiratory care, particularly in clients with infections or conditions that lead to mucus production and retention. Therefore, utilizing such techniques can significantly improve the outcomes in lung health management.