In which scenario should a first responder use the recovery position?

The recovery position is specifically designed for individuals who are unconscious but still breathing. This position helps to maintain an open airway, reducing the risk of aspiration if the patient vomits, while allowing the body to be positioned safely on its side. It is a critical technique used in emergency care, ensuring that the airway remains clear and reducing the chances of respiratory complications.

In situations where a patient is conscious and alert, they can maintain their own airway and respond to surrounding stimuli, which negates the need for the recovery position. Similarly, with a suspected heart attack or during a seizure, the appropriate responses may differ; a suspected heart attack may require the individual to sit comfortably to ease strain, while during a seizure, the focus is on protecting the individual from injury rather than positioning them in recovery. Thus, B is the appropriate choice, as it aligns directly with the intended use of this lifesaving maneuver.