BCEN CFRN Practice Question

Using the jaw-thrust maneuver instead of the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver is correct because it allows for airway management without causing further movement of a potentially unstable cervical spine. The oropharyngeal airway can help maintain patency but should be used only if the patient does not have a gag reflex. Nasal airways should be avoided if there is any suspicion of a basilar skull fracture. RSI may be considered after securing initial airway patency, but it is not the initial step in managing difficulties encountered with the airway in this specific scenario.