The best position to place an uninjured, unresponsive patient during transport is:

• A. Supine with head slightly elevated
• B. Supine with legs slightly elevated
• C. Recovery position on the right side
• D. Recovery position on the left side

Answer: (D)

Maintaining an open airway and preventing aspiration during transport is the priority for an unresponsive patient without suspected spinal injury. The recovery position on the left side uses gravity to keep the airway clear and allows secretions or vomit to drain away from the trachea. The left side is taught because the stomach sits on that side, which helps keep any gastric contents away from the airway if regurgitation occurs. A supine position can let the tongue fall back and obstruct the airway, and elevating the legs doesn’t protect the airway. So, placing the patient on the left side in the recovery position best supports airway patency and drainage during transport.