If an individual is unconscious – whether as a result of accident or illness or when in the post-operative recovery unit – but is breathing and has a pulse, he or she should be placed in the recovery position. The individual is turned on his or her side to allow the tongue to fall forwards and so reduce the likelihood of pharyngeal obstruction (see PHARYNX). Fluid in the mouth can also drain outwards instead of into the TRACHEA and LUNGS. The person can lie on either side with upper or lower leg flexed. Sometimes the semi-prone position is used; this gives better drainage from the mouth and greater stability during transport, but makes it more difficult to observe the face, colour or breathing. (See APPENDIX 1: BASIC FIRST AID.)