Learn CPR. For Life.™
Certification
Exam

ACLS Course

BASIC AIRWAY TECHNIQUES

These techniques are used to open the airway when it is obstructed by the tongue or other soft tissues. They are typically the first line of airway management and can be performed by anyone with basic life support (BLS) training.

  • Head-Tilt/Chin-Lift Maneuver: This maneuver is used to open the airway in patients without suspected cervical spine injury.

    • Place one hand on the patient’s forehead and apply firm backward pressure to tilt the head back.
    • Place the fingers of your other hand under the bony part of the chin and lift the chin forward.
    • Avoid pressing on the soft tissues under the chin, as this can obstruct the airway.

  • Jaw-Thrust Maneuver: This maneuver is used when cervical spine injury is suspected.

    • Place your fingers behind the angles of the mandible (jawbone).
    • Thrust the jaw forward, lifting the mandible.
    • Do not tilt the head back.

  • Oropharyngeal Airway (OPA) Insertion: The OPA is a curved plastic device inserted into the mouth to keep the tongue from obstructing the airway. It is used in unconscious patients without a gag reflex.

    • Measure the OPA from the corner of the mouth to the earlobe or angle of the jaw.
    • Open the patient’s mouth using the crossed-finger technique.
    • Insert the OPA upside down until you meet resistance at the back of the throat.
    • Rotate the OPA 180 degrees as you advance it into the oropharynx.

  • Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) Insertion: The NPA is a flexible tube inserted through the nostril into the nasopharynx. It can be used in conscious or semi-conscious patients.

    • Select the appropriate size NPA (diameter slightly smaller than the patient’s nostril).
    • Lubricate the NPA with a water-soluble lubricant.
    • Insert the NPA into the nostril, following the natural curve of the nasal passage.
    • Advance the NPA gently until the flange rests against the nostril.

These basic airway techniques are essential for maintaining a patent airway in emergency situations. Proper application of these techniques can significantly improve patient outcomes.