The most obvious position to transport a patient is the most comfortable position for the patient. This is referred to as the position of comfort. It may be reclined, semi reclined or supine. The position of comfort is typically reserved for conscious patients who are able to choose the position.

When the patient is unresponsive and there is no threat of a cervical spine trauma, the recovery position may be more useful. The recovery position positions the patient in the left lateral recumbent position (laying on their left side). The advantage of this position can be seen when the patient vomits and is able to expel all the vomit and maintain a clear airway.

The supine position is reserved also for unconscious patients. The advantage of the supine position is that it allows access to the patient in the event of a high acuity patient intervention. Further, patients who are immobilized are immobilized into the supine position.