Question

When opening the airway of an unresponsive trauma patient with a potential cervical spine injury in the emergency department, how do you do it?

Answer 1

If you suspect cervical spine injury , do not move the affected person. Permanent paralysis and other serious complication can result.

Patients with suspected cervical spine injury may require emergency intubation for airway protection.

Do not tilt the head back to open the airway who may have a spine injury.

Jaw -thrust maneuver allows to clear the tongue from the airway with minimal neck movement . This method is used on a supine patient. In jaw - thrust technique place your hands on either side of their face and with your fingertips gently lift the jaw to open the airway , avoiding any movement of their neck.

Orotracheal intubation with cricoid pressure and manual -in - line immobilization of the head and neck .