In which position would a patient be if they are lying on their back?

When a patient is lying on their back, they are in the supine position. This term originates from the Latin word "supinus," which means "lying on one's back." In medical terminology, the supine position is commonly used for various procedures and examinations as it provides easy access for healthcare providers and supports the patient's comfort.

In contrast to supine, the prone position refers to lying on the stomach, which is the opposite. The seated position indicates a patient is upright and resting on a chair or similar surface, while recumbent typically describes a position of lying down but does not specify the orientation (back or front). Therefore, the most accurate term for a patient lying on their back is indeed supine.