In what circumstances should a patient be placed in recovery position?

The correct choice relates to the practice of placing an unresponsive patient in the recovery position under specific conditions. This position is essential for maintaining an open airway in unresponsive individuals who can still breathe normally and have no spinal injuries. By placing such a patient on their side, it helps prevent aspiration of vomit or saliva, reduces the risk of airway obstruction, and allows for better drainage of any fluids from the mouth.

In contrast, the other situations do not warrant the recovery position. A conscious patient who can communicate is likely able to maintain their own airway and respond to questions or interventions without the risk of aspiration. For patients in severe pain or those experiencing an alert state with a history of seizures, it's crucial to monitor their condition closely, manage their pain, or prepare for the next steps in care rather than placing them in recovery position, where monitoring might become more challenging. Thus, the specific circumstances of an unresponsive, but breathing, patient without spinal injury make option A the appropriate choice.