What is the first step in establishing a patent airway?

The first step in establishing a patent airway is performing the head tilt-chin lift maneuver. This technique helps to open the airway by repositioning the tongue and relieving any potential obstruction. When a patient is in a supine position, the tongue may fall back and obstruct the airway. By tilting the head back slightly and lifting the chin, the airway can be opened, allowing air to flow freely into the lungs.

This maneuver is a key initial action in many airway management scenarios, especially for patients who are unresponsive or have alterations in their level of consciousness, as it helps prevent asphyxiation by ensuring that the patient's airway remains clear. It is a fundamental skill for EMTs and is often the first intervention before considering more advanced airway management techniques or devices. Other methods, like using a nasopharyngeal airway or suctioning, may be necessary if the airway remains compromised, but they are not typically the first step in the process. Similarly, inserting an endotracheal tube is a more advanced procedure that is not performed until basic airway patency has been established.