If casualty is unconscious, place in what position?

• A. Recovery position with injured side down
• B. Supine on their back
• C. Prone position
• D. Trendelenburg

Answer: (A)

Maintaining an open airway is the priority when a casualty is unconscious but breathing. The recovery position puts the person on their side so gravity helps keep the airway clear and allows any secretions or vomit to drain away from the lungs, reducing the risk of aspiration. Placing the casualty on the side with the injured side down supports the head and stabilizes the body, and helps fluids drain away from the airway in the presence of injuries on that side. Lying on the back can allow the tongue to occlude the airway, and the prone or Trendelenburg positions don’t protect the airway in an unconscious patient. So the best choice is the recovery position with the injured side down.