Recovery Position: Essential First Aid Training

Knowing how to help someone who is unconscious but still breathing can save lives. The recovery position is a fundamental first aid technique that protects the airway, prevents choking, and gives emergency responders crucial time to arrive. Northern Nevada CPR in Reno provides CPR and First Aid classes that teach the recovery position along with other life-saving skills.

What Is the Recovery Position?

The recovery position involves placing a person on their side, keeping their airway clear and allowing fluids like saliva, blood, or vomit to drain. This simple action can:

• Keep the airway open

• Prevent choking and aspiration

• Support proper breathing

• Improve blood circulation in certain emergencies

When to Use the Recovery Position

Use this position if the person is:

• Unconscious but still breathing

• Has a pulse

• Not suspected of having a spinal, neck, or back injury

Common scenarios include fainting, seizures (after convulsions stop), drug or alcohol overdose, head injuries without spinal trauma, and diabetic or other medical emergencies.

When Not to Use the Recovery Position

Do not use the recovery position if the person:

• Is not breathing—begin CPR immediately

• Has a suspected spinal injury—keep them still

• Is actively vomiting while lying flat—roll carefully to the side to prevent choking

How to Place Someone in the Recovery Position

1. Kneel beside the person on the floor.

2. Confirm they are breathing and have a pulse.

3. Straighten their legs if needed.

4. Position the arm closest to you at a right angle to the body.

5. Place the other hand against the opposite cheek.

6. Bend the far knee at a right angle.

7. Roll the person toward you by pulling on the bent knee.

8. Tilt the head back slightly to keep the airway open.

9. Adjust the hand under the cheek for support.

10. Call 911 (if not already done) and stay with the person until help arrives.

Why the Recovery Position Matters

Unconscious individuals are at high risk of choking or suffocation if left on their backs. The recovery position uses gravity to keep the airway clear, ensuring oxygen can reach the lungs. It’s a simple, effective, and universally accessible first aid technique.

Conclusion

You don’t need medical training to make a life-saving difference. Knowing the recovery position is an essential skill for caregivers, teachers, coaches, and everyday bystanders. Learn this and other critical first aid techniques at Northern Nevada CPR.

Learn more and sign up for classes at northernnevadacpr.com