What maneuver should be used to open the airway if a head or neck injury is suspected?

The jaw-thrust maneuver is the preferred technique for opening the airway when a head or neck injury is suspected. This method is critical because it avoids tilting the head back, which can exacerbate spinal injuries in patients. By using the jaw-thrust maneuver, the rescuer can effectively lift the jaw forward and create an airway without causing potential further harm to the spinal cord.

In contrast, other methods, such as the head tilt-chin lift, can put unnecessary strain on the cervical spine and increase the risk of injury. The chin tuck and brow lift are not standard maneuvers for airway management in emergency situations, especially when there is any risk of trauma. Therefore, the jaw-thrust maneuver is the safest and most effective approach for opening the airway in these scenarios.