New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

In which scenario is the head tilt-chin lift maneuver most appropriate for opening the airway?

1. A 24-year-old male who is found unconscious at the base of a tree

2. A 37-year-old female who is found unconscious in her bed

3. A 45-year-old male who is semiconscious after falling 20 feet

4. A 50-year-old male who is unconscious following head trauma

The correct answer is: A 37-year-old female who is found unconscious in her bed

The head tilt-chin lift maneuver is most appropriate for opening the airway in situations where there is no risk of a spinal injury, making it particularly suitable for a patient found unconscious in bed. This maneuver is effective because it helps to elevate the tongue away from the back of the throat, thereby clearing the airway and allowing for better ventilation. In the other scenarios, the risk of potential spinal injury must be considered. For instance, the male found unconscious at the base of a tree and the male who is semiconscious after falling could have sustained neck or spinal injuries, which would make the use of the head tilt-chin lift inappropriate. Instead, a jaw thrust maneuver would be preferred in those cases, as it minimizes movement of the cervical spine. Similarly, for the individual with head trauma, there is significant potential for spinal involvement, indicating that a cautious approach is required to avoid exacerbating any injury. Therefore, in the case of the woman found unconscious in bed, the absence of factors that suggest a spinal injury makes the head tilt-chin lift maneuver a safe and effective choice for airway management.