What is a simple maneuver to open the airway of an unconscious adult?

The head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver is a widely recognized technique used to open the airway of an unconscious adult effectively. This method involves tilting the head back slightly while lifting the chin upward, helping to reposition the tongue and other soft tissues in the throat away from the airway. This action alleviates potential obstruction due to these tissues collapsing into the airway, allowing for improved airflow and better ventilation.

In contrast, while the jaw thrust maneuver can also be used to open the airway, it is typically employed when there's a concern for spinal injuries, as it minimizes neck movement. Back-slapping techniques and abdominal thrusts are maneuvers used for other purposes, such as clearing airway obstructions but are not appropriate for simply opening the airway of an unconscious person. Thus, the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver stands out as the most straightforward and effective method for this specific situation.