What is a recovery position?

A recovery position is a specific body position used to help keep an unconscious person's airway clear and open, allowing them to breathe easily. It involves placing the person on their side with their upper leg bent and their head tilted back slightly. This position helps prevent the tongue from blocking the airway and reduces the risk of choking on vomit. It is commonly used in first aid situations to ensure the person's safety until medical help arrives.

A recovery position is a position used to help an unconscious person maintain an open airway and prevent choking. It is also known as the coma position or lateral recovery position.

To place someone in the recovery position:

1. Kneel beside the person and place their arm closest to you at a right angle to their body.
2. Bend their other arm at the elbow and place the back of their hand on the side of their face.
3. Roll the person onto their side, keeping their head supported by their bent arm.
4. Tilt their head back slightly and lift their chin to open their airway.
5. Check that their airway is clear and that they are breathing.

The recovery position is not suitable for people who have sustained a serious neck or back injury. If you are unsure whether someone has a neck or back injury, do not move them. Call for medical help immediately.