When immobilizing a pediatric patient on a backboard, which practice aligns with maintaining airway safety?

• A. Avoid placing a strap or tape over the chin
• B. Place a strap over the chin
• C. Strap across the forehead
• D. Leave the patient unrestrained

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a clear airway is the priority when immobilizing a child on a backboard. A strap or tape over the chin can restrict mouth opening and jaw movement, making suctioning, airway adjunct placement, or bag-mask ventilation difficult. It can also worsen airway obstruction if secretions or vomiting occur. So the safest approach is to avoid securing across the chin, keeping the chin free to allow easy access to the mouth and airway while still securing the head and body with straps placed away from the chin. Leaving the patient unrestrained increases the risk of movement and spinal injury, and placing a strap over the chin directly compromises airway safety.