The recovery position is used for a victim who

• A. Unresponsive and breathing
• B. Unresponsive and not breathing
• C. Conscious and breathing
• D. Unconscious and with a pulse

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that the recovery position is used to keep the airway open in someone who is unconscious but breathing normally. Lying on their side helps prevent the tongue from slipping back and blocking the airway, and it also allows saliva, mucus, or vomit to drain away from the airway, reducing the risk of choking. It’s the appropriate action while waiting for help when the person is unresponsive yet breathing. If the person isn’t breathing, you would not use the recovery position—you’d start CPR. If they are conscious, you wouldn’t place them in this position, and different steps would apply. If there’s a suspected spinal injury, you’d minimize movement.