There are a few important things everyone should know in case of emergency – the recovery position is one of those things. Knowing how to use the recovery position can make the difference between life and death in an emergency situation.
What is the Recovery Position?
The recovery position is a way to ensure that an unconscious person is safely positioned while they wait for medical help to arrive.
The recovery position should be used in cases where a person is unconscious and breathing normally. It is important to note that the recovery position is not appropriate for people who are not breathing or are in
cardiac arrest. In such cases, immediate CPR and calling for
emergency medical assistance is necessary.
The recovery position is typically used for people who have passed out due to alcohol or drug use, low blood sugar, or other medical conditions that cause unconsciousness. It is important to place the person in the recovery position to prevent choking and to maintain an open airway.
How to Use the Recovery Position
To use the recovery position, follow these steps:
- Kneel beside the person and remove glasses or other objects that may be on their face.
- Extend the person’s arm that is closest to you above their head.
- Take the person’s far leg and bend it at the knee, bringing the foot towards their buttocks.
- Gently roll the person towards you, onto their side.
- Tilt the person’s head back slightly to keep the airway open, and adjust the person’s upper arm so that it is at a right angle to their body.
- Ensure that the person’s face is pointing downwards to allow any fluids to drain away from the airway.
- Monitor the person’s breathing and pulse while you wait for medical help to arrive.
Knowing how to use the recovery position is one way to make sure you are prepared in an emergency situation. This life-saving technique will ensure that an unconscious person can continue breathing until
emergency services arrive and they can receive the medical care they need.