What is any position in which the patient is lying down called?

The term "recumbent" refers to any position in which a patient is lying down. This broad definition encompasses various lying positions, such as supine (lying on the back) and prone (lying on the stomach). In medical contexts, the recumbent position can be important for various examinations, procedures, and comfort, as it implies that the patient rests on a horizontal surface, which can be beneficial for certain assessments and treatments.

In contrast, the other terms have specific meanings that do not encompass all lying positions. For example, "supine" specifically denotes the position where a patient lies on their back, while "proctectomy" is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the rectum. "Podiatrist" refers to a healthcare professional specializing in foot and ankle care, which is unrelated to patient positioning. Therefore, recumbent is the most accurate term for the general concept of lying down.