Opening the airway Jaw Thrust
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How to Open the Airway Using the Jaw Thrust Technique
In this film, we will explore how to safely open an airway using the Jaw Thrust technique. This method is particularly valuable when you suspect a neck or spinal injury, or when a head-tilt, chin-lift is not appropriate.
Why the Jaw Thrust Is Needed
When a person becomes unresponsive, the muscles that keep the airway open relax. As a result, the tongue can fall back and block the airway, preventing air from moving in and out of the lungs. Maintaining an open airway is therefore essential for survival.
The Jaw Thrust is ideal when you must avoid moving the neck, such as:
- Falls
- Road traffic collisions
- Sporting injuries
- Any situation where spinal injury is suspected
It is also useful during CPR when maintaining a neutral head position is important.
If spinal injury is not a concern, the head-tilt, chin-lift remains the simpler and preferred method.
Step-by-Step: Performing the Jaw Thrust Technique
- Position yourself correctly.
Kneel at the top of the casualty’s head in the “over-the-head position”. Ensure the casualty is lying on their back on a firm surface. - Stabilise your arms.
Rest your elbows on the surface beside the casualty’s head for stability. Place your index and middle fingers behind the angle of the lower jaw, just below the ears. - Lift the jaw.
Using a firm but gentle motion, lift the lower jaw upwards and forwards—towards the ceiling. Ideally, the lower teeth should move in front of the upper teeth. This action pulls the tongue away from the airway. - Avoid moving the neck.
Do not tilt or extend the head. The goal is to open the airway while keeping the neck in a neutral position. - Check for breathing.
Look for chest movement, listen for breathing, and feel for air movement on your cheek for no more than 10 seconds. - Swap if needed.
The Jaw Thrust can be tiring to hold. If possible, swap with another trained rescuer to maintain an effective airway.
What to Do Next
If the person is breathing normally:
- Maintain the airway using the Jaw Thrust until help arrives, or
- Place the person in the recovery position if spinal injury has been ruled out
If the person is NOT breathing normally:
- Keep the airway open
- Start CPR immediately
Why the Jaw Thrust Matters
The Jaw Thrust is a vital lifesaving skill that helps maintain oxygen flow to the brain and heart in a suspected spinal emergency. When every second counts, knowing how to open an airway safely can make a crucial difference.
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