Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Practice Exam

Which maneuver is key for basic airway control during resuscitation efforts?

1. Head tilt-chin lift

2. Jaw thrust maneuver

3. Prone positioning

4. Compression breathing

The correct answer is: Head tilt-chin lift

The head tilt-chin lift maneuver is essential for basic airway control during resuscitation efforts because it effectively opens the airway by positioning the tongue away from the back of the throat. This maneuver helps to clear any obstructions that may be blocking the airway, particularly in an unresponsive patient. By tilting the head back and lifting the chin, the anatomical alignment of the airway is improved, allowing for better airflow and making it easier to provide rescue breaths if needed. In clinical practice, this technique is often the first line of action when assessing and managing an airway in a patient requiring resuscitation. It is quick and easy to perform, which is crucial in emergency situations where time is of the essence. The underlying principle is to optimize the airway position for ventilation, making it a fundamental skill for any healthcare provider involved in emergencies. Other maneuvers like the jaw thrust are primarily used in cases where there is a suspicion of cervical spine injury, as they keep the neck in a neutral position while helping to maintain airway patency. Prone positioning and compression-breathing techniques serve different purposes altogether and are not standard practices for airway control during the initial resuscitation phase.