The recovery position is ideal if an individual is unconscious but still breathing and has no other life-threatening conditions. An individual in the recovery position will keep the airway open and clear. In addition, it also guarantees that any vomit or fluid will not trigger choking.
How to put an individual in the recovery position
- With the individual lying on his/her back, kneel close at his/her side.
- Position the arm closest to you at a right angle to the body with their hand in an upward manner in the direction of the head.
- Tuck the other hand beneath the side of the head so that the back of their hand is in touch with the cheek.
- Flex the knee outermost from you into a right angled position.
With the individual lying on his/her back, kneel close at his/her side. - Steadily roll the individual onto his/her side by drawing on the bent knee.
- The upper arm must be propping the head and the bottom arm stops rolling too far.
- Open up the airway by slowly tilting the head back and lifting the chin. Make sure that there is no blockage in the airway.
- You have to stay with the individual and closely monitor his/her condition until the emergency team arrives on the scene.
Spinal injuries
If an individual is suspected with a spinal injury, do not attempt to move the individual until the emergency team arrives.
In case it is required to open up the airway, you have to place your hands on either side of the individual’s head and slowly lift the jaw using your fingertips to open up the airway. Take extra care not to move the neck.
It is possible that an individual has a spinal injury if:
- Involved in an accident that directly involves the spine such as falls from a height or sustaining a direct blow in the back.
- The individual feels weak, numb or paralyzed.
- The individual complains of intense pain in the back or neck.
- The individual lost control of his/her bladder, limbs or bowels.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on recovery position is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage situations where recovery position is suitable by taking a standard first aid course with Ottawa First Aid.