What body position describes a patient lying face down?

The term that describes a patient lying face down is "prone." In this position, the patient's body is horizontal with the front side facing toward the ground. This position is often used in various medical assessments and procedures, including certain imaging tests, as it allows for access to the back of the body and can provide a different perspective for diagnostic purposes.

The supine position refers to a patient lying on their back, which is the opposite of prone. The lateral position involves a patient lying on their side, which offers a different set of advantages and applications in medical imaging and examination. The seated position indicates that the patient is upright, which is also distinct from the prone position. Understanding these terms and their implications is essential for effective communication and practical application in a clinical setting.