What should you do if a patient is unresponsive but breathing?

When encountering a patient who is unresponsive but breathing, placing the patient in the recovery position is the appropriate action to take. This position helps keep the airway open and allows any fluids, like vomit, to drain out of the mouth, reducing the risk of aspiration. By positioning the patient on their side, you also prevent them from rolling onto their back, which can compromise their ability to breathe effectively if they remain unresponsive.

The recovery position is particularly important because, although the patient is breathing, their level of consciousness still poses a risk for airway obstruction. Maintaining a clear airway is a priority in emergency care, especially in cases where a patient cannot respond.

Other actions, like starting chest compressions or shaking the patient, are not appropriate in this situation where the patient is breathing. Starting chest compressions is reserved for patients who are non-breathing and pulseless. Similarly, shaking the patient could potentially cause harm and does not help in assessing or improving their condition. Leaving the patient in a sitting position may also lead to airway compromise and is not conducive to their safety.