Jaw Thrust Cervical Spine — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyMedical Emergencies in DentistryJaw Thrust Cervical SpineNDEB AFK

When performing CPR on an adult with a suspected cervical spine injury, how should the airway be opened?

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Correct answer: E — Jaw thrust without head tilt

In a patient with suspected cervical spine injury, the jaw thrust manoeuvre (without head tilt) is the recommended method for opening the airway. The jaw is thrust anteriorly by placing fingers behind the angles of the mandible and lifting forward, which moves the tongue anteriorly and opens the airway without extending the cervical spine. If the jaw thrust is unable to open the airway, a head tilt-chin lift should be used as the airway takes priority over potential spinal injury.

Reference: Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada – BLS Guidelines, 2020