emergency

Placing Someone in the Recovery Position

August 8, 2025 by Henry Dillon

The recovery position is a safe and simple first aid technique used to protect an unconscious person who is still breathing. It involves rolling the person onto their side in a way that keeps their airway open and prevents them from choking if they vomit or if fluids collect in the mouth. This position also makes it easier for you to monitor their breathing until help arrives.

If a person is unconscious but breathing normally, and there are no other life-threatening conditions, place them in the recovery position and continue to monitor them closely.

Special Consideration: Suspected Spinal Injury

DO NOT move the person if you suspect a spinal injury unless it’s absolutely necessary to keep their airway open. Moving them incorrectly could cause further harm.

If you must open their airway:

• Place your hands on either side of their forehead.

• Gently lift their jaw with your fingertips.

• Avoid moving their neck.

When to suspect a spinal injury:

• Direct impact to the back, such as from a fall, a car accident, or a heavy blow.

• Severe pain in the neck or back.

• Inability to move the neck.

• Paralysis or loss of control over limbs, bladder, or bowels.

How to Place Someone in the Recovery Position

If there is no spinal injury and it is safe to move them, follow these steps:

1. Kneel beside them while they are lying on their back.

2. Extend the arm closest to you at a right angle to their body, palm facing up.

3. Place their far hand across their chest so the back of the hand rests on the cheek nearest to you. Hold it in place.

4. Bend the far knee to a right angle.

5. Roll the person towards you by gently pulling on the bent knee.

6. Ensure the bent arm supports their head and the extended arm prevents them from rolling too far.

7. Adjust their bent leg so it remains at a right angle.
   

8. Open the airway by gently tilting their head back and lifting the chin.
   

9. Check that nothing is blocking the airway.

10. Stay with them and monitor their breathing and responsiveness until emergency help arrives.