Final answer:
In cases of possible spinal injury, the jaw-thrust maneuver is the preferred method to open the patient's airway while safeguarding against further spinal damage. The cervical collar may also be employed for added neck stability and a bag-valve mask may assist with breathing if needed. These techniques are distinct from those used for choking or during general anesthesia.
Step-by-step explanation:
When treating patients with potential spinal injuries, it is critical to maintain spinal stabilization while managing their airway. The recommended maneuver in this scenario is the jaw-thrust maneuver. This technique minimizes movement of the cervical spine and is used instead of the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver which is only appropriate when there is no suspicion of a spinal injury. The jaw-thrust maneuver is performed by placing your fingers behind the angles of the patient's lower jaw and lifting with both hands, displacing the jaw forward. If performed correctly, it can open the airway without moving the head or neck. However, a cervical collar may additionally be used to further immobilize the neck during transportation or further management. The bag-valve mask can be used in conjunction with these maneuvers to assist in ventilation if the patient is not breathing adequately.
It is important to note that the use of the Heimlich maneuver, back slaps, or turning an infant upside down are utilized in scenarios where the patient is choking, and these are different emergency situations. Similarly, endotracheal intubation, which is utilized under general anesthesia, is another advanced technique to maintain an open airway by placing a tube into the trachea.