FIRST AID MANUAL

24. POSITIONING OF INJURY VICTIMS

POSITIONING OF THE PATIENT
INITIAL POSITION
DO NOT MOVE the victim unless required because :
Area is unsafe for the rescuer to reach the victim then move the victim to a safer place
If the victim lies face down and is unresponsive then turn the victim face up
If the victim has breathing difficulty because of copius secretions or vomiting
If the victim unresponsive and you have to leave for help
Put patient into modified HAINES recovery position :
Straighten 1 arm above the head
Roll the body to that side untilthe head rests on the arm
Bend both legs to stabilize the victim

RECOVERY POSITION FOR ALL EXCEPT SPINE INJURED
1) Turn the victim to a side
2) Position the victim head dependent
3) Avoid pressure on the chest