The correct answer is C. Recovery.
This patient is:
Unresponsive
Has an open airway
Is breathing adequately
This meets the criteria for placement in the recovery position (lateral recumbent position).
Why C is correct (Recovery position):
The recovery position is used to:
Maintain a patent airway
Allow secretions or vomit to drain
Reduce the risk of aspiration
NREMT-aligned guidance states:
“Unresponsive patients with adequate breathing should be placed in the recovery position.”
“This position helps protect the airway and prevents aspiration.”
Why the other options are incorrect:
A. Supine: Increases risk of airway obstruction and aspiration.
B. Fowler: Used for conscious patients with breathing difficulty, not unresponsive patients.
D. Trendelenburg: Not recommended; may impair breathing and does not improve outcomes.
Exact Extracts:
“Place unresponsive breathing patients in the recovery position.”
“This helps maintain airway patency and allows drainage of secretions.”
“Airway protection is a priority in unresponsive patients.”
[References:, NREMT EMT Education Standards – Airway, Respiration & Ventilation, NREMT National Continued Competency Program (NCCP) – Airway Management, Prehospital Emergency Care (EMT) – Airway Management, ==================================, , , =================================================================, ]
