Moving People

Recovery Position

  • Used when a person is breathing and unconscious
  • Helps keep airway open
  • Allows fluid to drain from mouth
  • Prevents aspiration

How to Place in Recovery Position

  • Extend victim’s arm closest to you above victim’s head
  • Place victim’s leg farthest from you, over his other leg.
  • Support head and neck
  • Place victim’s arm farthest from you across his chest
  • Roll victim towards you
  • Position victims top leg so the knee acts as a prop for the body
  • Place victim’s hand under chin to keep airway open

Emergency Rescue Moves

In general, a rescuer should not move a person unless it is necessary to provide care or there is a direct danger to the person’s life. Remember to protect the head, neck and back.

  • Clothing Drag – Grasp the shirt near the shoulders. Lift up and walk backwards dragging the patient.
  • Blanket Drag – Place the patient on blanket or sheet. Grasp at head end, lift up and walk backwards or crawl while dragging the patient.
  • Extremity drag – If necessary simply drag by holding the legs or forearms and pulling.
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