The recovery position
Baby
A baby is considered to be less than 1 year old for the
purposes of these instructions.
For a baby less than a year old, a modified recovery position
must be adopted.
Cradle the infant in your arms, with his head tilted downwards
to prevent him from choking on his tongue or inhaling vomit.
Monitor and record vital signs - level of response, pulse and
breathing until medical help arrives.
Child/adult
Anyone over the age of 1 year old for the purpose of these
instructions.
An unconscious casualty who is breathing but has no other life-
threatening conditions should be placed in the recovery
position.
- Turn casualty onto their side.
- Lift chin forward in open airway position and adjust hand under
the cheek as necessary.
- Check casualty cannot roll forwards or backwards.
- Monitor breathing and pulse continuously.
- If injuries allow, turn the casualty to the other side after 30
minutes.
Note:
If you suspect spinal injury, use the jaw thrust technique.
Place your hands on either side of their face. With your fingertips
gently lift the jaw to open the airway. Take care not to tilt the
casualty’s neck.
Related topics
Please note:
These hints are no substitute for thorough knowledge of first
aid! St John Ambulance holds first aid
courses throughout the country.