The recovery position may need to be used in many conditions that need first
aid such as unconsciousness. It should not be used when a person:
Is not breathing
Has a head, neck, or spinal injury
Has a serious injury
The recovery position:
Allows the victim to breathe
freely
Protects the victim's airway. It allows
fluids such as vomit and blood to drain so the victim doesn't choke on them.
Promotes good circulation
Supports the body
Puts the victim in a comfortable position.
To put a person in the recovery position:
1. Kneel at his or her side.
2. Turn the victim's face toward
you. Tilt the head back to open the airway. Check the mouth if the victim is unconscious
and remove false teeth or any foreign matter.
3. Place the victim's arm
nearest you by his or her side and tuck it under the victim's buttock.
4. Lay the victim's other arm
across his or her chest.
5. Cross the victim's leg that is farthest from you over the one nearest you at the victim's ankles.
6. Support the victim's head with one hand and grasp his or her clothing at the hip farthest from you. Have him or her rest against your knees.
7. Bend the victim's upper arm
and leg until each forms a right angle to the body. This position helps to support the
victim. Don't let the victim roll onto his or her face.
8. Pull the other arm out from
under the victim's body. Ease it out toward the back from the shoulder down. Position it
parallel to the victim's back to keep him or her from rolling over on their back.
9. Make sure the head is tilted
back to keep the airway open.
HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 2000 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/01/01