The following method shows you how to put someone into the recovery position if you are on your own – even if you think they could have a spinal injury.
If you are not worried about a spinal injury, or if they are very heavy, you can just use their knee as a lever to propel them over into a draining position. If you are worried about the possibility of a spinal injury and you have other people to help, it is best to log roll them to keep the spine in line.
1. Crouch at their side.
2. Move the arm closest to you out of the way.
2. Use whichever of your hands is closest to their head to put their other hand on the side of their cheek to support the head and neck as you turn them.
3. Lift the outside of their knee up to bend it and use this as a lever to pull them over. Pull the knee to the floor, whilst supporting their head and neck with your other hand.
4. Pull their bent knee upwards into a running position to stabilise their body. Ensure they are tilted over enough to make their tongue flop forward and allow the contents of their stomach to drain out.
If you are not worried about a possible spinal injury, tilt their head back slightly to ensure the airway is properly open. If you are worried about a possible neck injury just ensure they are rolled over enough to drain.
6. Keep checking that they are breathing by feeling their breath on the back of your hand.
7. Get the emergency services on the way if they haven’t already been called.
First Aid for Life and onlinefirstaid.com provide this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. First Aid for Life is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made or actions taken based on this information. The best way to be prepared for action in an emergency is to attend a practical first aid course or do one online.