Final answer:
The use of manual airway maneuvers with a bag-valve mask is essential for unconscious patients but may not be necessary for conscious patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of manual airway maneuvers in conjunction with a bag-valve mask is essential for unconscious patients. These maneuvers include techniques such as the Heimlich maneuver, which can help force an aspirated object out of the respiratory tract. For unconscious patients, it is important to maintain an open airway and facilitate ventilation using a bag-valve mask and manual airway maneuvers.
On the other hand, for conscious patients, the use of manual airway maneuvers with a bag-valve mask may not be necessary. Conscious patients are usually able to protect their own airway and breathe adequately.