If there is no sign of trauma to the head or neck, or other reason to suspect cervical spine injury, place the patient on their left side, knees slightly flexed to help maintain the position. By placing the patient on their side, the tongue is less likely to occlude the airway and blood or secretions can drain freely.
If there is a possibility of cervical spine injury, the head and neck must be held in an in-line neutral position by one person while a second individual helps turn the patient onto their side. The person maintaining c-spine must assure the head and neck remain in line with the rest of the body as it is being turned and then must continue holding the head in a neutral position until the patient can be placed onto their back, and properly immobilized with a cervical collar, cervical immobilization device and long spine board.
In the recovery position
An unconscious victim should only be moved if their life is threatened by remaining there - this is a rule called 'Life Over Limb'.
yes
CPR should start once the casualty is deemed unconscious and not breathing and should only stop once you are physically exhausted of administering, or once further help has arrived in the form of paramedics and taken over.
CPR should be performed if a person is unconscious and not breathing
Yes, after ensuring the patient is breathing and their airway and mouth is clear of obstructions (such as dentures), then the patient should be turned on their side and placed in the recovery position.
The Recovery Position, or Lateral Recombant. Care should be taken when placing the patient in this position that no spinal injuries are suspected, and that the airway is open. Also check the modified Haines position, which creates less torsion on the spine. See links.
back with knees flexed
On his or her back with his or her knees flexed
DRSABCD is a first aid mnemonic that stands for Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, and Defibrillation. In the case of a casualty who is not breathing and unconscious, you would first ensure the area is safe (Danger), check for responsiveness (Response), call for emergency help (Send for help), open the airway (Airway), check for breathing (Breathing), and if there’s no breathing, start CPR. If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, it should be used as soon as possible (Defibrillation).
A patient should be placed in the recovery position if they are unconscious but breathing normally, to help keep the airway clear and reduce the risk of aspiration. This position involves lying the patient on their side with the head tilted back slightly to maintain an open airway. It is also appropriate if the patient is experiencing a seizure or if they are at risk of vomiting. However, if the patient shows signs of severe injury or is unresponsive and not breathing, immediate medical assistance should be sought, and CPR should be initiated.
No, you should not throw cold water on someone who is unconscious. Instead, call emergency services immediately and follow their instructions while ensuring the person's airway is clear and they are breathing.