In what position should a patient be placed for a flexible sigmoidoscopy examination?

For a flexible sigmoidoscopy examination, the recommended position for the patient is the left lateral position. This position is beneficial for several reasons: it allows for optimal visualization of the rectum and sigmoid colon, facilitates the insertion of the sigmoidoscope, and helps in relaxing the abdominal muscles.

In the left lateral position, the patient's left side is down, which aligns the sigmoid colon with the rectum, making it easier for the clinician to navigate the scope through the lower bowel. Additionally, being in this position can help decrease discomfort and minimize the risk of complications during the procedure.

Other positions, such as prone or supine, would hinder accessibility to the sigmoid area, making the procedure less effective or more challenging. The right lateral position, while it might be useful in some scenarios, is not standard for this specific examination due to similar accessibility issues. Thus, the left lateral position is clearly the most appropriate and effective choice for a flexible sigmoidoscopy.