Head-Tilt Chin-Lift
The head-tilt chin-lift is the standard method for opening the airway in a patient with no suspected spinal injury. It moves the tongue away from the posterior pharynx by extending the neck and lifting the chin.
Jaw Thrust
The jaw thrust is used when trauma suggests possible cervical spine injury. Place your fingers behind the angle of the mandible and lift it forward without extending the neck. It is less effective and harder to maintain, so be ready to add an airway adjunct.
If the Airway Stays Closed
If a jaw thrust cannot open the airway in a trauma patient, use a head-tilt chin-lift anyway, because an open airway takes priority over possible spinal injury. Reassess after each maneuver, suction as needed, and prepare for ventilation support.