Which airway-management technique minimizes head, neck, and spinal movement to prevent further injuries?

The jaw-thrust technique is specifically designed to open the airway while minimizing movement of the head, neck, and spinal region. This is crucial in situations where a spinal injury is suspected, as excessive movement can worsen the injury or complicate the patient's condition. By utilizing the jaw-thrust method, the rescuer can maintain spinal immobilization and ensure that the airway remains clear without flexing or extending the neck. This technique is particularly effective in cases of trauma, where maintaining alignment of the spinal column is a priority to reduce additional risks during airway management.

In contrast, other airway management techniques, such as the head tilt-chin lift, involve movement of the head and neck, which could potentially lead to exacerbating spinal injuries. The BVM (bag-valve-mask) technique also requires proper alignment and may not sufficiently minimize spinal movement. Lastly, a cricothyrotomy is an invasive procedure done when other methods fail, and it is not focused on minimizing spinal movement but rather on securing an airway rapidly. Therefore, the jaw-thrust technique is the optimal choice specifically for situations requiring careful handling of the spine while ensuring the airway is open.