Final answer:
To initially open the airway of an unresponsive and non-breathing child after a vehicle accident, use the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver. If a spinal injury is suspected, use the jaw-thrust technique. Immediately after opening the airway, deliver rescue breaths and proceed with high-quality CPR.
Step-by-step explanation:
When attending to a child who is unresponsive and not breathing after being struck by an automobile, it is imperative to open the airway to give rescue breaths. The recommended method to open the airway is by using the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver. This technique involves tilting the head back and lifting the chin to clear the airway, allowing for efficient breath delivery.
If you suspect a spinal injury, the jaw-thrust technique should be utilized instead to prevent further injury. Rescue breathing should be delivered immediately after the airway is opened, either by mouth-to-mouth respiration or using a barrier device if available. Once the airway is clear, check again for normal breathing, and if there is none, begin administering CPR following the current guidelines of at least 5 cm deep chest compressions at a rate of 100 compressions per minute. It is essential to provide high-quality chest compressions until professional medical assistance arrives or the child regains spontaneous breathing and circulation.