Suspected Spinal Injury Recovery Position

Breathing Not Compromised

If the casualty is breathing normally;

• Ensure an ambulance has been called
• Reassure the casualty and tell them not to move
• Steady and support their head, keep the spine as straight as possible
• Position your hands so your thumbs are above the casualties ears and other fingers are below. Do not cover their ears so they can hear. 
• Keep the casualty still and warm
• Monitor breathing until help arrives

Spinal Recovery Position Lone Rescuer

• Kneel next to the casualty
• Cross their legs, bring the far leg towards you
• Slide their nearest hand under their head with their palm upwards, be careful to limit any movement being made to the head
• Grasp their hip and shoulder furthest away from you
• Pull both these points evenly so the casualty rolls towards you on to their side
• Bring the crossed leg towards you, now the hip and knee are at right angles
• Monitor breathing closely until help arrives

Activity

Sort through the potential signs and symptoms of a suspected spinal injury and drag and drop them into the correct column.