When should the recovery position be used?

The recovery position is specifically designed for unresponsive victims who are still breathing. This positioning helps to ensure that the airway remains clear and open, reducing the risk of asphyxiation from inhaling vomit or fluids, and facilitates easier breathing. It also helps prevent choking, as the person's head is turned to one side, allowing any fluid to drain from the mouth rather than being inhaled.

Using the recovery position for responsive victims who are breathing is not necessary since these individuals are capable of managing their own airway. Applying this position indiscriminately to any victim, regardless of responsiveness, may not be appropriate as it can put them at risk for injury, particularly if they have unknown spinal injuries. Additionally, keeping an unresponsive victim with known spinal injuries in the recovery position can lead to further complications; therefore, it’s crucial to assess the situation and apply the recovery position correctly for unresponsive victims only.