Knowing how to put someone in the recovery position is essential, and could make a huge difference for any casualty who is unconscious but is still breathing...
The recovery position is a cornerstone of first aid knowledge, and can come in handy in many different situations. Whether it is an adult or a child, it will help the casualty immensely by opening their airways and ensuring they can't roll away and potentially cause more harm to themselves.
When do we use the Recovery position?
We use the recovery position when the casualty is unconscious but still breathing. Even if the breathing is laboured or irregular, you should still place them in the correct position. Always make sure you are monitoring their breathing - if they are unconscious and not breathing, perform CPR immediately!
Why do we use the Recovery Position?
The reason why we use this position is so the casualty cannot choke on their tongue or vomit. By placing the hand under their cheek and opening the airways, it allows for sick to drain out naturally. Another benefit of the recovery position is that the casualty cannot roll away, which is useful if you are on an uneven surface.
How do we perform the Recovery Position?
Place the hand furthest away from you on their cheek and hold in place.
Hold the leg furthest away from you and roll them on their side.
Lift their chin up so they can breathe properly.
Wait with them and call an ambulance.
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