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It is very important to know some first aid tips so that in times of emergency we already know what to do initially, especially if there are no rescuers and rescue equipment readily available. In all emergency situations, always remember to prioritize the ABC - (1) Airway, (2) Breathing and (3) Circulation. Here are some tips in positioning a casualty and their rationales.

In aspiration, the casualty should be placed in prone position with the head turned to the side in order to maintain a patent airway and to avoid further airway obstruction.

If a casualty is having dyspnea or difficulty in breathing, place him or her in Fowler’s position to allow lung expansion. The head should be in 45 to 90 degrees angle.

If a casualty is in shock, place him or her in Trendelenburg position. The body is laid flat on the back (supine position) with the feet higher than the head. This is to increase the blood pressure so as to counteract shock. In this condition, insufficient blood flow reaches the body tissues that may lead to hypoxemia (a lack of oxygen in arterial blood) or cardiac arrest (the heart stopping). If there is no immediate action, it can cause death.

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