A person who responds but is not fully awake should be placed in the recovery position. This position helps keep their airway clear and open, preventing life-threatening airway obstruction or choking, especially if they vomit or have fluids in their mouth. The recovery position involves gently rolling the person onto their side with the head tilted back slightly to maintain an open airway, stabilizing their body so they do not roll onto their stomach or back, and monitoring their breathing until professional help arrives.
Why the Recovery Position Is Important
Placing a person who is breathing but not fully conscious in the recovery position reduces the risk of choking or airway blockage by allowing fluids to drain safely from the mouth. It is particularly important in cases of fainting, seizures, drug overdose, or alcohol intoxication.
How to Place Someone in the Recovery Position
- Confirm that the person is breathing but not fully awake.
- Extend the arm nearest to you at a right angle to their body with the palm facing upward.
- Bring their other arm across their chest and place the back of their hand against the cheek closest to you.
- Bend the knee farthest from you to form a stable base.
- Gently roll the person onto their side towards you, supporting their head.
- Tilt their head back slightly to keep the airway open.
- Stay with the person and monitor their breathing until help arrives.
This positioning keeps the airway clear and allows the tongue to fall forward, preventing airway obstruction, making it the recommended position for responsive but not fully awake individuals in emergency care situations.
