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DRAFT — NOT FOR PUBLIC EMERGENCY USE
Draft content aligned with ILCOR/AHA resuscitation guidelines, IFRC/Red Cross first aid guidance, WHO emergency care principles, and NFPA fire safety standards. Requires expert review before publication.
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If someone needs immediate help with recovery position, use emergency mode.
Do this nowRecovery Position
Many emergencies get worse when people panic or use the wrong action. Learning recovery position (child/infant) gives you a simple plan to protect yourself and help others while waiting for professional responders.
Follow these in order when you need this skill.
Check the scene for danger before you help. Do not become another casualty. Call for help when needed.
Age-adjusted recovery positioning for unconscious breathing child or infant maintaining airway patency.
Use head tilt and chin lift for most cases. Use jaw thrust if you suspect a neck or spine injury.
Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Gasping is not normal breathing.
If not breathing normally, start CPR and call for help. If breathing normally but unconscious, use recovery position and monitor.
Things that can make the situation worse
Review this skill with a family member. Say the steps out loud and name one time you would call emergency services instead of doing more.
Question 1
What should you do first when using recovery position (child/infant)?
Answer: Make sure the scene is safe. Scene safety comes first. You cannot help if you become injured too.
Question 2
When should you stop and wait for professional help?
Answer: When you are unsure, untrained for the next step, or the situation is beyond basic first aid. Civilians save lives by calling for help and doing simple actions safely. Know your limits.
Practice this skill for these emergency situations.
More skills in Airway & choking.