Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

When performing a head-tilt-chin-lift maneuver, when should you opt for a jaw thrust instead?

1. If the patient is responsive

2. If head trauma is suspected

3. If the patient's airway is obstructed

4. If the patient is in a seated position

The correct answer is: If head trauma is suspected

The jaw thrust maneuver is preferred in situations where head trauma is suspected because it minimizes movement of the cervical spine. In patients who may have experienced spinal injuries, particularly in the neck, the head-tilt-chin-lift maneuver can inadvertently exacerbate potential injuries by extending the neck. The jaw thrust allows for airway opening without affecting the alignment of the spine, thus reducing the risk of further injury while still providing adequate access to manage the airway. In this context, it is essential to be cautious about airway management when trauma is present, as maintaining spinal stability helps prevent additional complications. The other scenarios, such as whether the patient is responsive, has an obstructed airway, or is seated, do not carry the same risk of spinal injury and do not necessitate the more cautious approach of the jaw thrust maneuver.