Ryanair Initial Practice Exam

How should cabin crew open an unconscious passenger's airway?

1. Jaw Thrust Method

2. Head Tilt, Chin Lift

3. Neck Extension

4. Manual Jaw Opening

The correct answer is: Head Tilt, Chin Lift

To open an unconscious passenger's airway effectively, the Head Tilt, Chin Lift method is preferred. This technique is essential because it helps to prevent airway obstruction caused by the tongue falling back into the throat when a person is in a supine position. By tilting the head back and lifting the chin upward, the airway is straightened, thereby allowing clearer access for air to flow into the lungs. This approach is particularly beneficial in emergency situations where it’s crucial to establish an open airway rapidly. It is simple to perform and does not require any specialized training, making it suitable for cabin crew members who may encounter such situations during flights. The other methods, while they may have their own specific uses, do not align as closely with the objective of quickly and effectively opening an unconscious passenger's airway. For instance, the Jaw Thrust Method is more applicable when there is the possibility of spinal injury, as it minimizes neck movement. Neck Extension may not be suitable for unconscious individuals due to the risk of airway obstruction. Manual Jaw Opening, meanwhile, can also create complications and is not as effective for maintaining an open airway compared to the Head Tilt, Chin Lift method. Thus, the importance of using the Head Tilt, Chin Lift method becomes clear in the context of