American Red Cross (ARC) Lifeguarding Practice Test

How should you manage a patient who is vomiting and unresponsive?

Keep them upright and do not touch them. Place in recovery position if possible; if not, roll to side and ensure airway; call EMS and begin CPR if needed. Turn them face down. Wait for EMS to arrive without providing care.

Correct Answer:

Place in recovery position if possible; if not, roll to side and ensure airway; call EMS and begin CPR if needed.

Explanation:

When someone is vomiting and unresponsive, the priority is to protect the airway and get professional help quickly while starting life support if needed. The recovery position accomplishes both: it helps keep the airway open and allows vomit to drain away from the lungs, reducing the risk of aspiration. If you can’t safely place them in that position, roll them to their side and keep the airway clear so they can breathe more easily. Call EMS right away and, if the person isn’t showing normal breathing or a pulse, begin CPR immediately and continue until help arrives or an AED is ready to use. This approach prevents the airway from becoming blocked by vomit, minimizes aspiration risk, and ensures timely life-supporting care.

Access more questions from this quiz

Continue to American Red Cross (ARC) Lifeguarding Practice Test for more practice questions and the full quiz experience.

Access More Questions