The position of the spine in the recovery position - an experimental comparison between the lateral recovery position and the modified HAINES position

Abstract

UNLABELLED: The lateral recovery position is widely used for the positioning of unconscious patients. Ideally, in the setting of trauma it is avoided because of concerns about spinal cord injury. However, unconscious individuals with unsuspected trauma or trauma victims attended by partially trained first-aiders may be placed in the recovery position, potentially endangering the cord. Excessive movement of the spine in the recovery position may increase the risk of spinal cord injury in these situations. A new recovery position, termed the modified HAINES position, is described and the position of the spine in this position is compared with the lateral recovery position. HYPOTHESIS: That the..