What is a potential risk if an unconscious patient is not placed in the recovery position?

When an unconscious patient is not placed in the recovery position, there is a significant risk of airway obstruction. This is primarily because an unconscious individual may be unable to protect their own airway due to the loss of reflexes that help keep the airway clear, such as coughing or swallowing. Without intervention, the tongue can fall back and block the airway, leading to inadequate ventilation and oxygenation.

In the recovery position, the patient is positioned on their side, which helps ensure that the airway remains open and allows any fluids, such as saliva or vomit, to drain out of the mouth rather than being inhaled. This positioning is a critical measure in first aid to maintain breathing and prevent aspiration of foreign materials into the lungs.