Which airway opening technique should be used in a suspected head injury case?

In cases of suspected head injury, using the modified jaw thrust maneuver is crucial for safely establishing an airway. This technique is specifically designed to minimize movement of the cervical spine, which is vital in patients with potential spinal injuries. When head or neck trauma is suspected, traditional airway maneuvers such as the head tilt or chin lift could inadvertently exacerbate any existing spinal cord injuries by causing further misalignment or compression.

The modified jaw thrust technique involves lifting the jaw forward without tilting the head back, allowing for airway opening while reducing the risk of movement to the cervical spine. This approach is particularly important in protecting the integrity of the spinal cord and ensuring that the patient's airway remains patent without causing additional harm.

Considering the potential complications associated with head and neck injuries, the modified jaw thrust maneuver is the most appropriate and safest choice to ensure airway management in these situations.