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Writer's pictureSaving Grace Medical Academy Ltd

Nursing Students: First Aid Course Guide - Rolling a Patient Over with the H.A.IN.E.S Technique

Updated: Nov 19


Person laying face down demonstrating the prone position.

Rolling a Patient

When encountering someone who is unconscious and lying face down, it’s essential to know how to safely position them to protect their airway and prevent spinal injuries. The H.A.IN.E.S (High Arm In Endangered Spine) technique is a critical method covered in Heart & Stroke Foundation First Aid courses, ensuring you can support a person’s head, neck, and spine alignment while you roll them onto their back. This guide will explain the steps for using the H.A.IN.E.S technique and answer common questions, such as "How do I roll a person over safely?" and "What does H.A.IN.E.S. stand for?" This essential skill is a cornerstone of emergency response training in healthcare settings, especially for nursing students.


NOTE - Updates occur frequently within a First Aid Program (Every 5 years) and the technique may not be referred to as "H.A.IN.E.S any longer, with this in mind, we still use the acronym to help highlight our goal of protecting an endangered spine.


What is H.A.IN.E.S?

H.A.IN.E.S. stands for High Arm In Endangered Spine. This technique minimizes movement in the head, neck, and spine, helping to avoid further spinal injury. Using this method can also clear the airway, making it easier to assess breathing and, if necessary, administer CPR.

Step-by-Step Guide: Using the H.A.IN.E.S Technique

  1. Position Yourself: Kneel beside the person and position their arm (farthest from you) over their head—this will be the “High Arm” supporting their head as they’re rolled.

  2. Place Closest Arm and Leg: Tuck the closest arm by their side and cross their legs by positioning the leg closest to you over the other leg at the ankles.

  3. Support the Head and Neck: Place your hand under the person’s jaw, with your thumb and index finger on either side, and let your other fingers rest along the neck. Slip your forearm under their shoulder for support.

  4. Grip the Waist for Stability: Use your free hand to hold the person’s belt at the hip or, if they don’t have a belt, grip their clothing near the waist.

  5. Roll in a Controlled Manner: In unison with both hands, slowly roll the person away from you. As they move, their head should rest on the raised arm, keeping the head, neck, and spine aligned. Continue rolling gently until they’re on their back.

  6. Check the Airway and Breathing: Once the person is on their back, assess their breathing. If they aren’t breathing, begin CPR immediately with 30 compressions and 2 breaths for all age groups.



How to roll a person into the Recovery Position in First Aid
Curtisy of the Heart & Stroke Foundation "Standard First Aid Reference Manual" Copyright 2017


Key Points for Nursing Students in Emergency Situations:

  • Always Protect Yourself: Assess for any dangers before approaching the person.

  • Call 911: Time is critical in emergencies. Call for professional assistance as soon as possible.

  • Be Prepared with First Aid Training: As a nursing student, your First Aid and CPR knowledge can make a life-saving difference.


Learn the Life-Saving H.A.IN.E.S Technique with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.


At Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd., we’re committed to equipping nursing students with practical, hands-on First Aid and CPR training. Our Heart & Stroke Foundation-certified courses prepare you for real-life scenarios, giving you the confidence to respond safely and effectively. Register today and take a proactive step toward your career in healthcare and community safety!


Disclaimer: This material is provided for informational purposes and should not replace official training, medical advice, or instructor guidance. For further questions, please contact your physician or a certified training facility.


RESOURCES:


Heart and Stroke Foundation Accredited trainer logo.
 

Jason T - Author

Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd

Jason T

Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor

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