Introduction
When someone becomes unresponsive but is still breathing normally, the recovery position is the safest way to maintain their airway and keep them stable until help arrives. This simple yet life-saving procedure prevents the tongue from blocking the airway and reduces the risk of choking if the person vomits. Below is a clear step-by-step guide based on St John Ambulance’s first aid principles.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Before taking any action, ensure you’ve completed a primary survey to check the casualty’s responsiveness and breathing. If they are unresponsive but breathing normally, they must be placed in the recovery position. If they stop breathing at any point, call 999 or 112 immediately and begin CPR.
Step 2: Prepare the Casualty
- Kneel beside the casualty on the floor.
- Remove their glasses and any bulky items from their pockets, as these could cause discomfort or restrict movement.
- Avoid searching their pockets for small personal belongings—focus on ensuring there are no large objects that could cause harm.
Make sure both legs are straight to begin with.
Step 3: Position the Arm Nearest to You
- Take the arm closest to you and place it out at a right angle to the body.
The palm should face upwards, ensuring the arm is flat and stable on the ground.
Step 4: Move the Other Arm Across the Chest
- Take the other arm (the one farther from you) and bring it across the casualty’s chest.
- Place the back of their hand against your nearest cheek.
- Hold it gently in position to help guide their movement later.
Step 5: Prepare to Roll the Casualty
- With your other hand, lift the far knee so that the foot is flat on the floor.
- Keep holding the hand against their cheek as you do this.
Step 6: Roll the Casualty onto Their Side
- Gently pull on the bent knee while keeping the hand pressed to the cheek.
- Carefully roll the casualty towards you, allowing their body to turn smoothly onto their side.
Adjust their top leg so that it forms a right angle—this helps stabilise their position.
Step 7: Maintain an Open Airway
- Tilt the casualty’s head back slightly to keep the airway open.
- Adjust the hand under their cheek if needed to maintain the correct head position.
- This step ensures that air can move freely in and out of their lungs.
Step 8: Call for Help and Monitor
- If not already done, call 999 or 112 for emergency medical assistance.
- Stay with the casualty and monitor their breathing and level of response until help arrives.
If they stop breathing at any time, immediately begin CPR and continue until emergency responders take over.
Why the Recovery Position Matters
The recovery position is one of the most important first aid techniques for preserving life. It prevents suffocation by ensuring the airway stays open and clear. It also helps maintain stability for an unconscious person, reducing risks of further injury.
By learning and practising this simple method, anyone can make a difference in an emergency situation. Remember—your calm, quick action could save a life.
If you found this guide useful, consider supporting St John Ambulance, a leading organisation dedicated to first aid education and emergency response across the UK.
