Which of the following patients should you place in the recovery position?

• A. A 24-year-old unconscious female who overdosed and has a reduced tidal volume
• B. A 40-year-old conscious female with a possible neck injury and regular respirations
• C. A 31-year-old semiconscious male with low blood sugar and adequate breathing
• D. A 19-year-old conscious male with a closed head injury and normal respirations

Answer: (B)

Recovery position is used to keep the airway open and reduce the risk of aspiration in someone who is not fully conscious but is still breathing on their own. It helps prevent the tongue from blocking the airway and allows fluids to drain instead of collecting in the mouth or throat. The move should be avoided if there’s a suspected neck or spinal injury, because turning the person could worsen a spine injury; in such cases you keep them in stable alignment and only move with extreme care and spinal precautions if needed for airway management.

In this scenario, the person who is semiconscious with adequate breathing fits the situation where placing them on their side can protect the airway while you address their low blood sugar. If their level of consciousness worsens or breathing becomes insufficient, be prepared to provide airway support or ventilation. For anyone with a suspected neck injury or head injury, any movement should be minimized and performed with appropriate spinal precautions.