The recovery position is a vital first aid procedure used to maintain an open airway in an unconscious person. Lifting the knee plays a key role in achieving the correct body alignment for this position. Here’s a quick overview of why lifting the knee is so important when placing someone in the recovery position:
Maintains Open Airway
The main reason we lift the knee is to help keep the airway open. When unconscious, the muscles in the throat can relax causing the tongue to fall back and block the airway. By tilting the head back and lifting the knee, we align the head, neck and spine to help prevent airway obstruction.
Allows Drainage of Fluids
Lifting the knee also aids drainage of fluids from the mouth. When unconscious, a person is at risk of choking on saliva, blood or vomit. Tilting the head and body allows gravity to drain fluids from the mouth rather than into the airway.
Promotes Blood Circulation
The recovery position helps prevent pressure on major blood vessels that could restrict circulation. Lifting the knee takes pressure off the abdomen and chest area to promote blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain.
Minimizes Pressure Sores
Lying on one side with the knee lifted also reduces pressure on bony areas of the body. This helps prevent sores and skin damage, especially if the person must remain in this position for some time before medical help arrives.
Makes Monitoring Easier
The alignment created by lifting the knee allows first aiders to monitor breathing and look for any changes in condition. It also provides access to quickly roll them back and begin CPR if needed.
How to Lift the Knee Correctly
When placing someone in the recovery position, the knee on their uppermost side should be bent at a 90 degree angle. Follow these steps:
- Lay the person on their side, preferably their left side.
- Extend their upper arm out at shoulder height.
- Bend their elbow and place the back of their hand against their cheek.
- Bend their upper knee to a 90 degree angle.
- Tilt their head back to keep the airway open.
- Adjust their hand under their head for support if needed.
Correct knee positioning is vital. Bending it too little won’t tilt the body enough. Bending it too much can make the position unstable and cause alignment issues.
Risks of Incorrect Knee Position
Failing to lift the knee properly can lead to the following issues:
- Blocked airway from tongue falling back
- Fluids draining into lungs
- Impaired circulation
- Skin damage from pressure
- Difficulty monitoring breathing
- Delayed access if CPR is needed
When Not to Use Recovery Position
There are some situations where the recovery position should not be used. These include:
- Spinal injury is suspected
- Serious chest or abdominal injury
- Fractured legs or hips
- Shoulder dislocation
- Pregnancy (after 28 weeks)
In these cases, leave the person lying on their back and open the airway using head tilt/chin lift, being careful to minimize spinal movement.
Conclusion
Lifting the knee is a crucial step in the recovery position. Correct knee positioning tilts the body in a way that keeps the airway open, allows fluid drainage, promotes circulation, prevents sores, and makes monitoring easier. Failing to lift the knee properly can lead to significant complications. However, there are some situations where the recovery position should not be used due to certain injuries or conditions.