The recovery position is a first aid technique for an unresponsive person who is breathing normally. Its main purpose is to maintain an open airway, safeguarding it and reducing potential complications until professional medical help arrives.
Why the Recovery Position is Essential
When a person becomes unresponsive, their muscles relax, including the tongue. This can cause the tongue to fall backward and obstruct the airway. Placing someone in the recovery position helps gravity keep the tongue clear.
Additionally, an unresponsive person may vomit or have fluids in their mouth. If lying on their back, these fluids can be inhaled into the lungs, a process known as aspiration, leading to serious respiratory complications. The recovery position facilitates the drainage of these fluids, preventing them from entering the lungs.
How to Place Someone in the Recovery Position
Before approaching, ensure the area is safe from hazards. Kneel beside the individual and confirm they are unresponsive but breathing normally. Straighten their arms and legs.
Extend the arm nearest to you straight out from their body at a right angle, with the palm facing upward. Bring their other arm across their chest and place the back of that hand against the cheek nearest to you.
Bend the leg farthest from you at the knee, so their foot is flat on the floor. While supporting their head and neck, pull on the bent knee to roll the person onto their side, facing you. Adjust the top leg so both the hip and knee are bent at right angles, which helps stabilize their position. Ensure their head is tilted back slightly to keep the airway open.
Key Situations and Precautions
The recovery position is appropriate for individuals who are unresponsive but breathing normally. It is commonly used in situations like alcohol poisoning, seizures (after convulsions stop), or fainting, providing immediate care until emergency services arrive.
However, the recovery position should be avoided or used with caution if a spinal, head, or neck injury is suspected, as movement could cause further harm. In such cases, avoid movement until medical professionals assess the situation, unless the airway is blocked. Do not use the recovery position if the person is not breathing normally; CPR is required immediately.
Next Steps After Placement
After placing the individual in the recovery position, continuously monitor their breathing and responsiveness. Observe their chest for movement and listen for breath sounds to ensure their airway remains clear. If their breathing becomes shallow or stops, be prepared to initiate CPR.
Contact emergency medical services immediately, if not already done. Provide clear details about the situation and the person’s condition. Remain with the individual, monitoring them closely, until medical personnel arrive and take over care.