When training for CPR certification, one thing stands out that many classes neglect or fail to mention that is vital. The military teaches it but some civilian first aid classes are just now starting to touch on this tremendously important but overlooked detail. If the airway is obstructed, you must quickly identify whether or not the injured, non-breathing person has a neck or spinal wound. If there is a severe neck injury, you could actually kill the victim by turning their head to clear the airway.

It’s a Judgment Call

This is such a precarious road to cross. Here you have a victim who has no pulse or respiratory function. If you also have a severe neck injury, you could potentially defeat any attempt at revival by turning the head, as we were taught to do in CPR certification 101. You simply have to use your own good judgment on how to clear the airway, including a possible tracheotomy.

When All Else Fails

If the victim is lying on their back, is not breathing, has a possible injury to the spine, and needs CPR done now, follow these basic guidelines to help until professionals arrive. Following this procedure could be the difference in quality of life should they be resuscitated.

– Kneel down beside the injured far enough away so as to give them room to roll.

– Position the legs into a straight position. Everything you do should be quick and with purpose as this will shave vital seconds off the procedure of reviving the injured person. The object is to align perfectly the head and spine and rolling the body is difficult if the legs are not straight.

– Take the injured parties far shoulder with your hand, positioning the other hand under the head and neck.

– With a pulling motion, roll the victim over onto his or her side, making sure the head and body roll together in a fluid motion.

Keep In Mind

Remember that this is to be performed only if there is no other option and you cannot clear the airway with the conventional jaw thrust maneuver. The only other option, the head tilt, is never to be tried on a person with an injury to the spine. Before rolling a person on his side to sweep the airway clean physically, you should use the jaw thrust, as this will clear all but the totally obstructed.

The Jaw Thrust

Kneel down above the injured person so that you are behind the top of their head. Using your fingers, hook the jaws bone under the chin and project the jaw forward. Your hands should be in such a position as your thumbs and easily spread the lips and teeth. Slightly reach in and grasp the lover jaw from the chin to keep the jaw slightly thrust forward and place your other hand on the injured person\’s forehead. The air way should be open enough to breath through the moth and nose together. This technique is ideal if there are two CPR certification specialists performing CPR on the injured person.

Author Bio: For more information please visit our CPR Recertification website.

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