This resource has undergone expert review.
Year:
Year 5–6, Year 7–8, Year 9–10, Year 11–12
Links to National Curriculum
Putting someone in the recovery position
If a person is unconscious, or non-responsive but breathing, they should be placed in the recovery position while waiting for help to arrive (see How to help someone who has taken a drug). If they are left lying on their back they could suffocate on their vomit or their tongue could block their airway. Putting someone in the recovery position will help to keep the airways open.
To place someone in the recovery position:
1. Kneel beside the person.
2. Straighten their arms and legs.
3. Fold the arm closest to you over their chest.
4. Place the other arm at a right angle to their body.
5. Get the leg closest to you and bend the knee.
6. While supporting the person’s head and neck, gently take the bent knee closest to you and very gently roll the person away from you.
Adjust the upper leg, so both the hip and knee are bent at right angles. Ensure the person is steady and cannot roll.
7. Tilt the head back and make sure the airways are clear and open.
Find out more about how to help someone who has taken an illegal drug.
Evidence Base
This factsheet was developed following expert review by researchers at the Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use at the University of Sydney, the National Drug & Alcohol Research Centre at the University of New South Wales, and the National Drug Research Institute at Curtin University. See Teacher Booklet, Parent Booklet or Student Booklet for more information.
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by:
Related information
-
The type of pain felt in the abdomen can vary greatly.
-
Children may feel stomach pain for a range of reasons and may need treatment
-
When returning to a flood-affected area, remember that wild animals, including rats, mice, snakes or spiders, may be trapped in your home, shed or garden.
-
When returning to your home after a flood, take precautions to reduce the possibility of injury, illness or disease.
-
Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and asthma attacks need urgent emergency first aid. In an emergency, always call triple zero (000).
From other websites
Content disclaimer
Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.