Canadian Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Test

The head tilt/chin lift maneuver is a technique used to open the airway of an unconscious person who is not breathing. It is crucial during CPR and other emergency situations to ensure that the airway is clear and unobstructed.

The correct method involves placing your fingers under the patient's mandible (the lower jaw) and gently tilting the head back. This action elevates the tongue away from the back of the throat, which can block the airway. By tilting the head backward, you create a neutral position that helps to open the airway, making it easier for rescue breaths or ventilation to occur. This technique is essential as an unblocked airway is vital for effective CPR.

Other methods mentioned, although they may seem like ways to manage an airway, do not effectively achieve the goal of opening the airway in the same way. For instance, pulling the jaw forward with both hands is more aligned with a different maneuver for airway management but can result in complications if not done correctly. Tilting the head to the side does not guarantee that the airway is open, as it may still allow the tongue to fall back. Holding the patient's head still while breathing does not address the critical need to ensure that the airway is clear and accessible for ventilation.