Procedure

Note: The recovery position varies slightly depending on the course being followed, and the teacher's personal preference. The instructions below show the most common recovery position

View the 'Recovery Position: Adult' Gallery

View the 'Recovery Position: Child' Gallery

1. Ensure the casualty is lying on his/her back, face up (see Rolling a Casualty).
2. Take the casualty's nearest arm to you, and place it in a 'stop sign' (right angled at the elbow, palm flat).
3. Place the casualty's arm nearest you next to the casualty's side.
4. Pick up the casualty's arm nearest you and hold the back of the casualty's hand onto the casualty's cheek nearest to you.
5. Place your other hand underneath the leg of the casualty which is furthest from you.
6. Lift the leg up into a V shape.
7. Pull the leg towards you. The whole of the casualty's body should also roll towards you.
8. Extend the neck and open the airway by pushing the casualty's forehead and opening the mouth by lowering the chin.
9. Ensure that the casualty's arm is not pressing down on the other arm. If it is, lower the arm which is being pressed upon.
10. Pull the leg into a 90 degree angle for support.

Citation: Handley, A.J. (2006). Life Support: Basic Skills to Save Lives. Broom: Royal Life Saving Society (UK).