North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

An unresponsive patient with no suspected spinal injury should be placed in which position?

1. Supine position

2. Sitting position

3. Recovery position

4. Trendelenburg position

The correct answer is: Recovery position

An unresponsive patient with no suspected spinal injury should be placed in the recovery position to maintain an open airway and reduce the risk of choking. The recovery position involves positioning the patient on their side, which allows any fluids, such as vomit or saliva, to drain out of the mouth, preventing aspiration. This is essential in ensuring that the airway remains clear and that the patient can breathe more easily. The recovery position also helps in reducing the risk of pressure sores on the skin while providing an appropriate level of comfort. Furthermore, this position aids in maintaining circulation and can help assess responsiveness more effectively in emergency situations. In contrast, the supine position may allow for airway obstruction due to the tongue falling back, and it does not provide drainage for secretions. The sitting position could lead to airway compromise if the patient is unresponsive. The Trendelenburg position, where the patient’s feet are elevated above their head, is primarily used for specific cases of shock but is not suitable for unresponsive patients without suspected spinal injuries. Therefore, placing the patient in the recovery position is the safest and most effective choice.