Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What maneuver is used to adjust an unconscious patient's airway after removing them from a pool?

1. Bilateral nasal airway

2. Modified Jaw Thrust

3. Head-Tilt, Chin-Lift

4. Standard Jaw Thrust

The correct answer is: Modified Jaw Thrust

The Modified Jaw Thrust maneuver is employed to adjust the airway of an unconscious patient, particularly in scenarios such as a pool rescue where spinal injury is a concern. This technique is crucial because it helps open the airway without tilting the head back, which can exacerbate a potential cervical spine injury. By positioning the jaw forward and slightly upward while keeping the neck in a neutral position, the tongue is less likely to obstruct the airway. This maneuver is especially important for unconscious patients, as they may lack the protective airway reflexes that conscious individuals possess. The Modified Jaw Thrust provides a safe and effective method to ensure the airway remains open, allowing for adequate ventilation and oxygenation while minimizing the risk of further injury. In the context of unconscious patients, the other options may not be as suitable. The Head-Tilt, Chin-Lift technique, while commonly used for conscious patients, can lead to additional complications if the patient has a spine injury. Standard Jaw Thrust is similar to the Modified Jaw Thrust but is not specifically tailored to minimize head movement; thus, the Modified version retains a greater margin of safety. Bilateral nasal airway insertion is appropriate for managing airways but does not directly address the immediate need for airway adjustment in an unconscious individual,