Head Tilt
The head tilt helps open the airway in an unconscious person by tilting the head back to prevent airway blockage.
The head tilt is a vital component of basic first aid used to open the airway of an unconscious person. When someone becomes unresponsive, their muscles—including those that hold the airway open—can relax, causing the tongue to fall back and block airflow. The head tilt, when paired with the chin lift, helps move the tongue away from the back of the throat and restores a clear airway.
To perform the head tilt, the rescuer places one hand on the casualty’s forehead and gently tilts the head backward. This motion extends the neck and shifts the structures in the throat to create an open pathway for air. The chin lift is typically done at the same time by lifting the chin upwards with the other hand.
This technique should not be used if a spinal injury is suspected, as moving the neck could cause further harm. In such cases, a jaw thrust manoeuvre is recommended instead.
Understanding and applying the head tilt properly can be life-saving, as it’s one of the first steps in assessing and supporting an unconscious person's airway and breathing.
Unconsciousness
No normal breathing
Obstructed or noisy breathing
Lack of chest movement
Gasping or irregular breaths
Ensure the person is lying flat on their back.
Place one hand on the forehead.
Gently tilt the head backward by pressing the forehead.
Combine with the chin lift to fully open the airway.
Check for normal breathing and signs of life.
The head tilt is a first aid technique used to open the airway in an unconscious person by tilting the head backward. It's often combined with the chin lift.