In a casualty without a complete airway obstruction, there are things you can do to assist with breathing, such as:

- Perform a head-tilt/chin-lift or jaw-thrust maneuver
- Place the casualty in the recovery position

You will learn how to perform these techniques along with the recovery position during the practical skill exercises.

A jaw-thrust maneuver should be used if there is a suspected neck injury. For example, the casualty fell hitting their head on the ground.

A conscious casualty should be allowed to assume ANY position that allows them to breathe better. The best position may be sitting up. Generally, lying on the back is associated with a loss of airway patency when compared to other positions.

If the casualty is unconscious but breathing, the casualty should be placed in the recovery position.