Firefighter Practice Exam

Tilting a victim's head back during artificial respiration is primarily done to prevent choking or obstruction of the airway. This maneuver helps to open the airway by aligning the throat and esophagus, allowing for unimpeded airflow to the lungs. In cases where a victim is unconscious or unable to breathe on their own, the body's muscles can relax, which might cause the tongue to fall back and block the airway. By tilting the head back, you can effectively lift the tongue away from the back of the throat, reducing the risk of obstruction and facilitating better air passage during resuscitation efforts. This is a crucial technique employed in emergency situations to ensure that the victim receives adequate oxygen.