Airway Management: Chin Lift vs. Jaw Thrust for Conscious Patients

Chin lift and jaw thrust

If your friend is conscious but has clenched teeth, you should perform a chin lift and jaw thrust to open the airway. This technique is simple and can be performed quickly and effectively.

Chin lift

1. Stand or kneel behind your friend.

2. Place your thumbs on their chin and your fingers under their jaw.

3. Gently lift their chin until their head is tilted back and their airway is open.

Jaw thrust

1. Stand or kneel behind your friend.

2. Place your thumbs on their lower molars and your fingers under their jaw.

3. Gently thrust their jaw forward until their airway is open.

Continue the chin lift and jaw thrust until your friend is breathing normally or until medical help arrives.