You suspect that an unresponsive patient has sustained a neck injury. which technique should you use to open the patient’s airway?

General
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you suspect that an unresponsive patient has sustained a neck injury. which technique should you use to open the patient’s airway?

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You suspect that an unresponsive patient has sustained a neck injury. Which technique should you use to open the patient’s airway?

Answer: In situations where an unresponsive patient is suspected to have sustained a neck injury, it’s crucial to minimize any movement of the cervical spine (neck) to prevent further injury. The recommended technique for opening the airway under these conditions is the jaw-thrust maneuver.

Jaw-Thrust Maneuver:

The jaw-thrust maneuver is specifically designed to open the airway while minimizing movement of the cervical spine. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Positioning:

    • Ensure the patient is lying on their back in a supine position.
    • Kneel at the patient’s head.

  2. Hand Placement:

    • Place your hands on either side of the patient’s head.
    • Position your thumbs on the patient’s cheeks or lower jaws.

  3. Lifting the Jaw:

    • Use your index and middle fingers to gently lift the angle of the patient’s jaw upward.
    • Take care not to tilt the neck or move the head.

  4. Opening the Mouth:

    • While lifting the jaw, the patient’s mouth should naturally open.
    • Ensure the airway is clear of any obstructions.

Why Not Use the Head-Tilt/Chin-Lift Maneuver?

The head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver is another technique used to open an airway; however, it involves moving the neck which can exacerbate a cervical spine injury. Therefore, it is not recommended in cases where neck injury is suspected.

Additional Considerations:

  • Stabilization: If you have access to cervical collars or other immobilization devices, use them to further stabilize the neck.
  • Professional Help: Call emergency services immediately. Neck injuries can be very serious and require professional medical attention.

Conclusion:

In summary, when managing an unresponsive patient with a suspected neck injury, the jaw-thrust maneuver is the safest technique to open the airway while protecting the cervical spine. Always prioritize minimizing neck movement and seek professional medical aid as soon as possible.

By using the jaw-thrust maneuver, you can effectively open the airway without risking further harm to the patient’s neck, ensuring both immediate and long-term safety.