Airway
Recovery Position
The recovery position protects the airway of an unconscious person who is breathing normally by keeping them on their side so the tongue cannot block the throat and fluids can drain.
The recovery position protects the airway of an unconscious person who is breathing normally by keeping them on their side so the tongue cannot block the throat and fluids can drain.
When to use the recovery position
Use the recovery position for any person who is unconscious but breathing normally, including after a seizure, fainting episode, head injury, intoxication or overdose.
Do not use the recovery position if you suspect a spinal injury unless the person is vomiting or you cannot keep their airway clear — airway always comes first.
How to do it (adult / child over 1 year)
- Kneel beside the person.
- Extend the arm closest to you above their head.
- Bring the far arm across the chest, palm against the near cheek.
- Bend the far knee up so the foot is flat on the ground.
- Pull on the bent knee and roll the person towards you onto their side.
- Adjust the upper leg so the hip and knee are bent at right angles.
- Tilt the head back slightly to keep the airway open. Check breathing every minute.
Infant (under 1 year)
Hold the baby face-down along your forearm with the head slightly lower than the body, supporting the head and neck with your hand. This lets fluids drain while keeping the airway clear.
See also
The recovery position is part of the Airway step of DRSABCD.
Questions & answers
When should I put someone in the recovery position?
Any unconscious person who is breathing normally and has no suspected spinal injury. It keeps the airway open and lets vomit drain away.
How often should I recheck breathing?
Every 1–2 minutes until paramedics arrive. If breathing stops or becomes abnormal, roll the person onto their back and start CPR.
What if I suspect a spinal injury?
Keep the head and neck in line with the body. Only roll them if necessary to keep the airway clear, and use a log-roll with helpers if possible.
Related topics
DRSABCD Action Plan
The DRSABCD action plan is the Australian Resuscitation Council's seven-step primary survey for any emergency: Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation.
Head Injury and Concussion
Always suspect a spinal injury with a head injury. Lay the person down, control bleeding without direct pressure on a depressed area, and call 000 for any loss of consciousness, vomiting or confusion.
Seizures and Epilepsy
During a seizure, protect the person from injury, time it, and never restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Afterwards, place them in the recovery position and reassure them.
Choking — Adult, Child and Infant
For a person who cannot cough, speak or breathe, give 5 sharp back blows between the shoulder blades, then 5 chest thrusts, and alternate until the airway clears or they become unconscious.
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