What is the technique to open an airway in an adult?

The head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver is the correct technique for opening an airway in an adult. This method is particularly effective because it helps to realign the airway by lifting the chin and tilting the head back, which in turn elevates the tongue away from the back of the throat. This maneuver is especially useful in cases where an unconscious adult may have their tongue obstructing the airway, ensuring that air can pass freely into the lungs.

It is important to note that this technique should be performed with caution in cases of potential spinal injury. In such scenarios, a jaw thrust maneuver might be more appropriate as it minimizes excessive movement of the spine. However, for most situations involving an adult who requires airway management, the head-tilt, chin-lift is the preferred method due to its simplicity and effectiveness in restoring airflow.

The modified Heimlich maneuver focuses on relieving choking in a conscious individual, while the back blow technique is often used for infants who are choking. These techniques serve different purposes and are not the preferred methods for simply opening an airway.