Question

In which of the following situations should the jaw-thrust maneuver be used?

a) Suspected spinal injury
b) Cardiac arrest with a pulse
c) Unresponsive patient with adequate breathing
d) Unresponsive patient with inadequate breathing

Answer 1

The jaw-thrust maneuver should be used for a patient with a suspected spinal injury to avoid further damage while trying to open the airway. It involves moving the jaw forward without moving the spine and is indicated for an unresponsive patient with inadequate breathing and possible cervical spine injury.

Step-by-step explanation:

The jaw-thrust maneuver should be used in situation a) Suspected spinal injury. This is because the jaw-thrust maneuver does not require moving the spine and is the preferred way to open the airway without potentially causing further injury to the spinal cord. It is especially critical for unresponsive patients who may not have adequate breathing, and there is a possibility of a cervical spine injury.

To perform the jaw-thrust maneuver:

1. Kneel above the patient's head.
2. Place your hands on either side of the patient's head.
3. Use your fingers to push the angles of the lower jaw upward.
4. Gently lift with both hands to move the jaw forward.
5. If the patient is not breathing adequately, you might need to provide rescue breathing.

This maneuver is not generally advised for patients who are exhibiting adequate breathing or patients who have a pulse but are experiencing cardiac arrest, as other resuscitative measures may be more appropriate in those scenarios.

Remember, if the patient begins to exhibit poor or absent breathing during the maneuver, immediately reassess and follow the appropriate first aid or advanced life support protocol.