If an accident victim is vomiting and suspected of having internal bleeding, in what position should they be placed to ensure their safety?

Question

DentroTest · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is the Lateral or defense position (commonly known as the Recovery Position). Why this and not the anti-shock position? Although the general rule for internal bleeding or shock is the anti-shock position (lying on the back with legs raised to improve blood flow to the brain), there is a critical exception: vomiting. Airway patency is the absolute priority in first aid (ABC rule). If you place a vomiting person on their back or with their legs raised, vomit can accumulate in the throat and be aspirated into the lungs, causing asphyxiation or severe pneumonia. Therefore, the ideal position for bleeding is sacrificed in favor of the lateral position, which allows fluids to drain out by gravity and prevents choking.

If an accident victim is vomiting and suspected of having internal bleeding, in what position should they be placed to ensure their safety?

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