What is the appropriate action if the jaw-thrust maneuver does not adequately open the airway of a trauma patient?

Prepare for the JBL Airway Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you excel. Get ready for the exam!

In the context of airway management for a trauma patient, if the jaw-thrust maneuver fails to adequately open the airway, the appropriate action is to carefully tilt the patient's head back and lift up on the chin. This technique is known as the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver, which can be effective in certain situations.

When a patient's airway is obstructed, it is crucial to ensure that the tongue and soft tissues within the mouth are not blocking the trachea. By tilting the head back, you can help realign the airway structures, allowing for improved airflow and potentially relieving any obstruction caused by anatomical structures. However, this maneuver should be performed with caution, especially in trauma patients, as spinal injuries or other conditions could exacerbate the situation.

While the other choices may provide some level of airway support, they may not be the most appropriate initial action in this scenario where a clear airway is still not achieved after the jaw-thrust maneuver. Utilizing a nasopharyngeal airway or assisting with ventilations are more advanced techniques that might be necessary if basic maneuvers fail, but first ensuring a proper head tilt is the critical next step in airway management.

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