OSH Security Practice Test

What is the definition of positional asphyxia?

1. When the position of the body interferes with its ability to breathe

2. When someone faints and falls to the ground

3. When the position of the body doesn’t allow the subject to move freely

4. When it becomes difficult to breathe

The correct answer is: When the position of the body interferes with its ability to breathe

The correct answer defines positional asphyxia as a situation where the position of the body interferes with its ability to breathe. This phenomenon occurs when a person's posture restricts their airway or prevents them from getting sufficient oxygen. Common scenarios include situations where an individual is trapped in a confined space or is held in a position that compresses the chest or throat. Other options may seem related but do not capture the specific meaning of positional asphyxia. For instance, while fainting involves a loss of consciousness, it doesn't inherently relate to the positioning of the body impacting breathing capabilities. The option related to the body not being able to move freely touches on mobility but lacks the crucial aspect of how that immobility directly affects breathing. The last option mentions difficulty in breathing, but it is too vague; it does not specify that this difficulty arises from the body's position, which is essential in defining positional asphyxia.