How to place an unconscious person in the recovery position
IMPORTANT: Only place someone in recovery position if they are unconscious but breathing. If not breathing, begin CPR immediately and call 999.
Why Recovery Position?
The recovery position keeps an unconscious person's airway open and allows fluids (vomit, blood) to drain from the mouth. This prevents choking and maintains breathing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Check Responsiveness
Tap the person's shoulders
Shout "Are you okay?" loudly
If no response, proceed to recovery position
Step 2: Check Airway and Breathing
Open the mouth and check for obstructions
Remove any visible objects (food, dentures, etc.)
Look, listen, and feel for breathing (max 10 seconds)
If breathing, proceed with recovery position
If not breathing, call 999 and begin CPR
Step 3: Position the Body
Kneel beside the person at their side (preferably the right side)
Straighten the legs: Extend both legs straight out
Position the arm: Place the arm nearest to you at right angles to the body, elbow bent with palm facing up
Cross the far arm: Cross the person's far arm across their chest, with the back of their hand against their cheek
Bend the far leg: Bend the person's far leg at the knee, keeping the sole of the foot on the ground
Step 4: Roll the Person
Support the head: Place your hand on the person's head to support it
Grip the knee: Grip the bent knee with your other hand
Roll gently: Roll the person toward you by pulling on the knee and supporting the head
Final position: The person should be on their side with the bent leg supporting their body
Step 5: Adjust the Head
Tilt the head back: Tilt the person's head back slightly to keep the airway open
Support with hand: The hand under the cheek helps keep the head tilted
Open the mouth: Leave the mouth slightly open to allow fluids to drain
Step 6: Monitor Continuously
Check breathing regularly (every 10 seconds)
Monitor for changes in condition
Keep the person warm with a blanket
Do not leave the person alone
Call 999 if you haven't already
Be ready to perform CPR if breathing stops
Recovery Position Diagram
Final Position
Person on their side
Head tilted back, airway open
Mouth slightly open
One leg bent for stability
One arm supporting the head
One arm across the chest
class="mt-5">Important Points
Check breathing: Always check for breathing before placing in recovery position
Support the head: Always support the head to prevent injury to the neck
Keep airway open: Tilt the head back to keep the airway clear
Monitor continuously: Watch for changes in breathing or consciousness
Call for help: Always call 999 for an unconscious person
Keep warm: Cover the person with a blanket to prevent heat loss
Do not leave alone: Stay with the person until help arrives
Be ready for CPR: Know how to perform CPR in case breathing stops
When NOT to Use Recovery Position
Not breathing: If person is not breathing, begin CPR immediately
Spinal injury: If spinal injury is suspected, do not move the person
Severe injuries: If severe injuries are present, do not move unnecessarily
Pregnancy: For pregnant women, place on left side instead