How should you position an unconscious patient who is breathing?

How should you position an unconscious patient who is breathing?

• A. Flat on their back
• B. In the recovery position on their side
• C. Sitting upright
• D. Face down on the floor

Answer: (B)

Positioning an unconscious patient who is breathing is crucial for maintaining their airway and preventing aspiration. The recovery position, where the patient is placed on their side, helps to keep the airway open and allows any fluids to drain out of the mouth, reducing the risk of choking. This position also facilitates better lung expansion, promoting efficient breathing, and it helps ensure that the tongue does not obstruct the airway, a common concern in unconscious individuals. Other positions, such as lying flat on the back, may increase the risk of airway obstruction due to the tongue falling back, and could also lead to aspiration if the patient vomits. Sitting upright might not adequately secure the airway or disrupt the patient’s ability to breathe effectively. Placing the patient face down on the floor is particularly dangerous, as it can obstruct the airway and lead to suffocation. Therefore, the recovery position on their side is the safest option for an unconscious patient who is breathing.

Positioning an unconscious patient who is breathing is crucial for maintaining their airway and preventing aspiration. The recovery position, where the patient is placed on their side, helps to keep the airway open and allows any fluids to drain out of the mouth, reducing the risk of choking. This position also facilitates better lung expansion, promoting efficient breathing, and it helps ensure that the tongue does not obstruct the airway, a common concern in unconscious individuals.

Other positions, such as lying flat on the back, may increase the risk of airway obstruction due to the tongue falling back, and could also lead to aspiration if the patient vomits. Sitting upright might not adequately secure the airway or disrupt the patient’s ability to breathe effectively. Placing the patient face down on the floor is particularly dangerous, as it can obstruct the airway and lead to suffocation. Therefore, the recovery position on their side is the safest option for an unconscious patient who is breathing.