Save A Life

Definition

The recovery position is used when a patient has been found unconscious or has fainted. This position prevents the patient from choking on the tongue or from vomit, blood or saliva. It will also keep the airway open and clear, and allow for fluid to drain from the mouth if the person does vomit.

Steps to follow:

Kneel next to the person.
Remove any glasses and bulky objects, such as keys, from his or her pockets.
Place the arm closest to you at a right angle to the body, with the elbow bent at 90 degrees and the palm upwards. With your one hand, bring the furthest arm across the chest and place the back of the hand against the nearest cheek. If the patient is wearing a ring, rotate the ring to avoid damaging the patients’ face.
With the other hand, pull the far leg into a bent position and pull it so that the person gently rolls towards you. Protect the head with one hand.
Adjust the leg so that the hip and knee are bent at right angles. This will support the body.
Tilt the head up slightly. Make sure that the hand is under the cheek to support the head.
Regularly monitor that the airway remains open.
Place a blanket over the person and stay close until help arrives.