Which airway maneuver is described for use if you are trained?

Which airway maneuver is described for use if you are trained?

• A. Head tilt and chin lift
• B. Jaw thrust with head in neutral
• C. Turn the head to the side
• D. Keep the airway closed and wait

Answer: (A)

Opening the airway in an uninjured, unconscious person is done with a head tilt and chin lift. By tilting the head back slightly and lifting the chin, you move the tongue and soft tissues away from the back of the throat, straightening the airway so air can flow in and out. This quick, straightforward maneuver is taught for responders who don’t suspect a cervical spine injury and is the preferred method to enable ventilation. The jaw thrust with the head in neutral is reserved for potential neck or spinal injury, and it’s more complex to perform properly. Turning the head to the side can help drainage but doesn’t reliably keep the airway open for ventilation. Keeping the airway closed and waiting obviously won’t fix an obstructed airway.

Opening the airway in an uninjured, unconscious person is done with a head tilt and chin lift. By tilting the head back slightly and lifting the chin, you move the tongue and soft tissues away from the back of the throat, straightening the airway so air can flow in and out. This quick, straightforward maneuver is taught for responders who don’t suspect a cervical spine injury and is the preferred method to enable ventilation. The jaw thrust with the head in neutral is reserved for potential neck or spinal injury, and it’s more complex to perform properly. Turning the head to the side can help drainage but doesn’t reliably keep the airway open for ventilation. Keeping the airway closed and waiting obviously won’t fix an obstructed airway.