How to position a person having anaphylaxis
How to position a child or adult having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) - A short animated film developed by the National Allergy Council.
How should a person having anaphylaxis be positioned?
ASCIA Action Plans for Anaphylaxis include the following infographics that show the correct and incorrect positioning of a person having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
LAY PERSON FLAT - do NOT allow them to stand or walk
- If unconscious or pregnant, place in recovery position - on left side if pregnant
- If breathing is difficult allow them to sit with legs outstretched
- Hold young children flat, not upright If unconscious, place in recovery position
- The person should NOT stand, walk, or be held upright, even if they appear to have recovered.
When a person has anaphylaxis their blood pressure can drop rapidly, which reduces blood flow to the heart:
- Laying the person flat will increase blood pressure and help blood flow to the heart.
- Standing or walking can make anaphylaxis worse by causing blood pressure to drop rapidly which reduces blood flow to the heart.
Content updated April 2024