Recovery position

The recovery position is the default storage of a self -breathing bewusstseinsgetrübten or unconscious person in the context of life support. While the airway is made ​​by the life-saving handle first, the recovery position also serves to prevent the purpose of accidental inhalation of liquid and solids such as saliva, blood and vomit. This aspect is essential, as consciousness Disturbed often vomit unnoticed and as a result often choke on their vomit.

It is important for first help that the exposed person breathes independently. For non- spontaneously breathing people no side position, but resuscitation should be undertaken.

The recovery position is also used in cases of suspected spinal injuries because of the risk of choking to death is valued higher by a possible laying of the respiratory tract as the risk of further damage to the spine.

Variants

There are different international versions of the stable side layers which have specific advantages and disadvantages. Matching features are a stable storage on the side, over-extended head and no pressure on the chest that impairs breathing.

Application

A motionless person is first mounted on the back to check awareness and breathing ( diagnostic block ), which is why this is usually the starting point for further action. If a person breathes independently despite disturbed consciousness, he shall be placed in the recovery position. For protection against the weather, he is then preferably wrapped in a blanket, to avoid chilling or overheating. Until the arrival of the emergency ambulance service alerted by the person concerned is constantly monitored. So in time, further measures can be introduced in a worsening of the condition and awakening concerned to be reassured. The recovery position is used primarily by lay rescuers, as professionals, the airway can be better achieved by insertion of an endotracheal tube.

Assigns the person concerned an injury in the area of the chest or lungs, it is rotated on the injured side, so that then overhead, undisturbed half of the lung can develop freely during inhalation and any bleeding may be pulled.

Pregnant women tend to be stored on the left side, because as the common cycle of mother and fetus can be best discharged (see vena cava compression syndrome).