What does positional asphyxia refer to?

Positional asphyxia refers to the inability to breathe due to body positioning. This condition can occur when an individual's position restricts their ability to take in air, often seen in situations where a person is restrained or in an awkward posture that compresses the chest or airway. It highlights the importance of being aware of how various physical positions can impact a person's respiratory function, especially in law enforcement or correctional settings where individuals may be held in specific positions for safety or security reasons. Understanding positional asphyxia is crucial for preventing asphyxiation events during restraint situations.