How to Open the Airway During CPR for Adults

When performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on adults, it's crucial to open the airway properly after removing any visible obstructions from the mouth and nose and taking out any loose dentures. The most commonly used manual technique for this is the head-tilt chin-lift maneuver.

Head-Tilt Chin-Lift Technique

To perform this maneuver, the patient should be lying flat on their back with the head, neck, and spine aligned in a straight line. The rescuer places the heel of their left hand on the patient's forehead and gently applies downward pressure to tilt the head back. At the same time, the rescuer uses the index and middle fingers of the right hand to lift the chin by placing them under the bony part of the lower jaw. This action should bring the angle of the jaw and the earlobe into a vertical alignment with the ground, effectively opening the airway.

Advanced Airway Management by Medical Professionals

For trained medical personnel, endotracheal intubation is the preferred method for securing an open airway during CPR. This procedure involves inserting a specially designed endotracheal tube through the mouth and past the vocal cords into the trachea. Once in place, the tube's cuff is inflated to ensure a secure seal, and a bite block is often used to prevent the patient from biting down on the tube. The endotracheal tube is then connected to a bag-valve mask or a mechanical ventilator to support breathing.

Why Proper Airway Management Matters

Effective airway management is essential during CPR to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Whether using the head-tilt chin-lift maneuver or endotracheal intubation, the goal is to maintain a clear passage for air to flow into the lungs, which significantly increases the chances of a successful resuscitation outcome.