How to place a baby or child into the recovery position

If the child / baby is breathing normally but unconscious then you need to protect their airway by placing them into the recovery position.

The recovery position involves rolling the casualty onto their side with their head tilted back. By doing this, the tongue is kept clear of the airway and any vomit is able to drain and not obstruct the child or baby’s airway.

Children

For children, the recovery position technique is the same as for adults. See our basic online first aid course for how to place someone into the recovery position using the current recommended technique. 

Child recovery position

 

Babies / infants

Hold the baby on their side with the head tilted downwards. This will allow any blood or fluid to drain away from the airway. Ensure you have fully supported the head.

Infant recovery position

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWZ1D5zr-Do

Want to learn more about first aid? Have a go at one of our free online first aid courses including our free online pediatric first aid course.

John Furst

JOHN FURST is an experienced emergency medical technician and qualified first aid and CPR instructor. John is passionate about first aid and believes everyone should have the skills and confidence to take action in an emergency situation.

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