Final answer:
In an accident involving a motorcycle, if the jaw-thrust maneuver is unsuccessful, the head tilt-chin lift maneuver should be attempted with caution due to potential spinal injury concerns. Maintain spinal precautions, and if necessary and trained to do so, commence CPR with a focus on protecting the spine.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the scenario where a 22-year-old man has crashed his motorcycle into a tree and is found responsive to pain only, not wearing a helmet, and you are unable to effectively open his airway with the jaw-thrust maneuver, the appropriate step is to perform a head tilt-chin lift maneuver. This is the next step in attempting to open the airway when the jaw-thrust maneuver is unsuccessful. However, it is essential to be cautious due to the potential of a spinal injury given the nature of the accident. If you are trained and able to safely perform this maneuver without causing further injury, proceed carefully. In a scenario where neck or spine injury is highly suspected, which might be the case given the accident details, maintaining spinal precautions is critical. If the patient's condition continues to deteriorate or you are unable to open the airway, and suspect cardiac arrest, CPR should be administered bearing in mind spinal protection techniques. Always seek emergency medical assistance immediately in such traumatic situations.