First aid
How to perform a proper recovery position for an unconscious but breathing person to maintain airway patency.
A clear, step by step guide teaches you how to safely place an unconscious, breathing person in the recovery position to keep their airway open, prevent choking, and support gentle, stable breathing.
Published by
Patrick Baker
July 23, 2025 - 3 min Read
When someone lingers unconscious but continues to breathe, securing the airway becomes the highest priority after ensuring danger has passed. The recovery position is a routine technique used by bystanders and professionals to prevent the tongue from blocking the airway, reduce the risk of aspiration if vomiting occurs, and keep the person stable until emergency help arrives. Before attempting any move, verify there is no spinal injury by asking gentle questions from a safe stance, looking for signs of movement, and ensuring you can reach the person without twisting your own body. Once you have established safety, proceed with calm, deliberate actions that respect their body alignment and comfort.
Start by kneeling beside the person, with their armpit closest to you. Gently straighten the far leg and bend the knee of the near leg, placing the foot flat on the ground to create a stable base. Roll the person toward you onto their side by supporting the neck and head, preventing abrupt twisting. The lower hand should be placed under the cheek to keep the head tilted slightly back, preserving an open airway. This position helps gravity assist drainage away from the airway while allowing for easier observation of breathing and color changes. Keep movements slow and controlled to avoid unnecessary distress.
Situational awareness and gentle adjustments support safety.
After repositioning, check the face for any obstruction and ensure the mouth remains slightly open to permit airflow. The top hand should rest on the cheek, with the arm forming a pillar to stabilize the head and neck. Align the spine into a neutral curve to avoid pressure on the chest that could hinder breathing. It is essential to verify that the mouth and nose are not blocked by fabric, saliva, or secretions. If you notice swelling or uncontrolled movements, stop adjusting and reassess the situation. The goal is to maintain airway patency while allowing the person to breathe without exertion or discomfort as they remain on their side.
Once settled in the recovery position, monitor breathing quietly and consistently. Look for regular, effortless breaths, a color change in the lips or face, and any signs of airway drainage. If respiration becomes shallow, irregular, or there is any obstruction, re-evaluate the position and adjust slightly to reestablish open airways. Do not leave the person unattended; periodically reassess their responsiveness and breathing rhythm. If vomiting occurs, you are already aligned to manage it by keeping the head tilted and away from the chest. Continuity of observation is essential until professional help arrives or until the person regains full consciousness.
Observe breathing patterns and head alignment throughout.
The recovery position is not universal for every unconscious person; it is specifically chosen when breathing is present and circulation appears intact. In cases where trauma or suspected spinal injury exists, limit movement and seek professional guidance immediately. If you must move the person, keep the head, neck, and torso aligned and minimize twisting. When a firm surface is unavailable, improvise with a padded jacket or sweater to cushion the head while maintaining airway alignment. It is critical to avoid putting weight on the chest or abdomen, which can impede breaths. Remember that restraint of any kind is dangerous in an unsecured unconscious person.
Documentation and timing matter in emergency response. Note the exact time you first observed the breathing pattern and the moment you repositioned. This information helps medical responders assess the progression of the incident and tailor treatment upon arrival. Keep your own hands free to provide care and avoid sudden shifts that could cause discomfort or airway compromise. If you are alone, shout for help or call emergency services yourself, providing clear, concise details about the person’s condition. The recovery position is a temporary measure until trained personnel can take over with advanced airway management.
Practice builds confidence and minimizes hesitation.
Maintaining the head in a slight extension without hyperextension is crucial. The neck should stay in a neutral line to preserve airway diameter and reduce resistance to airflow. A misaligned head can kink the windpipe or compress the tongue, particularly in the unconscious. Ensure the mouth remains open just enough for air to pass freely while avoiding drafts that could irritate the throat. In addition, check that the neck is not burdened by folds of fabric or clothing that could pinch or shift during movement. A relaxed face with a calm expression also signals safe care during a high-stress moment.
Some people may have difficulty tolerating the recovery position due to throat dryness or discomfort. If moisture is needed, lightly moisten the lips with a clean cloth or recommend gentle suction if available, but avoid forcing fluids. Communicate reassurance using soft, calm words and maintain a steady, reassuring presence. The helper’s posture matters; keep your own back straight and knees bent to preserve balance while avoiding jarring motions. Practice with a friend in a controlled setting to improve confidence, recognizing that real emergencies require rapid, measured actions rather than hesitation or over-thinking.
The approach remains steady, secure, and compassionate.
In practice scenarios, it is beneficial to rehearse the recovery position with clear safety checks. Begin by confirming the scene is safe, then prepare yourself for a smooth transition. Visualize each step before moving and keep frictionless contact with the body to prevent painful twists. During the repositioning, exhale to steady your own breath, which stabilizes your hands and reduces tremor. After placement, re-check the airway to ensure no fabric is obstructing air passage. Practiced responders can perform the technique in a few seconds, which is critical when minutes matter in emergencies.
A reliable recovery position also means being mindful of environmental factors. Temperature, humidity, and noise can influence the unconscious person’s comfort and breathing. If outdoors, shield the airway from wind; if indoors, ensure that surfaces are clean and dry to provide firm support. Avoid placing objects under the head that could create pressure points. Encourage others nearby to stay calm and avoid crowding the casualty. Clear communication and a coordinated response help reduce panic and improve outcomes, particularly for bystanders who are new to first aid but eager to help.
When the person resumes spontaneous breathing and responsiveness, continuously reassess. Watch for any signs of deterioration, including labored breathing, pallor, or restless movements. If such signs appear, revert to a position that maintains airway patency while preparing to administer further aid as directed by emergency professionals. Do not attempt to feed or give medications unless trained to do so. The recovery position should be treated as a temporary bridge to safety, not a substitute for definitive medical evaluation. Maintaining calm, patient presence can significantly affect the outcome in the crucial early minutes.
As you gain experience, you will better gauge the subtle cues of breathing and airway compromise. Remember that not all unconscious individuals will sustain adequate air exchange; some may deteriorate rapidly without warning. Your foremost duty is to preserve airway patency, prevent aspiration, and buy time for responders. By practicing the mechanics, staying aware of body alignment, and maintaining a reassuring demeanor, you equip yourself to act confidently under pressure. Revisit the technique regularly, update your knowledge with current guidelines, and share what you learn with others to improve community readiness in emergencies.
