What should be done if a patient is unresponsive but breathing?

When dealing with an unresponsive patient who is still breathing, placing the patient in the recovery position is critical for maintaining their airway and ensuring proper ventilation. This position helps to prevent aspiration of vomit or fluids in the airway, which could lead to choking. It also allows for effective drainage of secretions and ensures that if the patient does stop breathing or becomes unresponsive further, there is a lower risk of airway obstruction.

Leaving the patient in any position could pose significant risks, as gravity may cause the airway to become blocked, particularly if they were to vomit. While administering oxygen is important in many situations, the immediate priority for an unresponsive but breathing patient is to secure their airway. Starting CPR is inappropriate in this scenario since the patient is still breathing and does not require resuscitation efforts at that moment. Thus, positioning them correctly is essential for their safety until further help arrives.