Which statement best describes the purpose of the recovery position?

• A. To begin chest compressions
• B. To stop bleeding
• C. To maintain an open airway for an unresponsive person who is breathing
• D. To prepare for transport

Answer: (C)

The recovery position is used to keep the airway open in an unconscious person who is still breathing. When someone is unresponsive, the tongue and soft tissues can relax and partially block the airway, and fluids or vomit can drain toward the airway if they lie on their back. Placing them on their side with the head stabilized helps prevent obstruction, allows fluids to drain away from the airway, and reduces the risk of choking while you monitor them and await help. It’s not about starting chest compressions, stopping bleeding, or preparing for transport—those are addressed by different actions unless the person stops breathing or there is life-threatening bleeding. If breathing stops, you would begin CPR.