Which statement best defines positional asphyxia?

• A. A type of asphyxia that happens when the position of a person's body interferes with their breathing.
• B. A medical condition unrelated to breathing.
• C. A technique for breathing under pressure.
• D. An airborne toxin exposure.

Answer: (A)

Positional asphyxia happens when the position of the body interferes with breathing, so the person cannot get enough air even if they are trying to breathe. When someone is placed in a position that restricts chest or abdominal movement or narrows the airway—such as being held face down or restrained in a way that presses on the chest—ventilation is impaired. Oxygen delivery to the brain and other organs drops, which can lead to rapid unconsciousness and potentially death if the position is not changed. This concept is about breathing being compromised by how the body is positioned, not about a separate breathing technique, a non-breathing medical condition, or toxin exposure.