What major risk does the jaw thrust maneuver address?

The jaw thrust maneuver is primarily designed to open the airway and maintain it in a position that prevents obstruction. This technique is particularly useful in emergency situations where a patient may be unconscious or at risk of airway compromise due to relaxed muscles or possible spinal injury. By displacing the jaw forward without tilting the head, the maneuver helps to clear any obstructions that may be blocking the airway, such as the tongue, which is a common cause of airway obstruction in unresponsive patients.

This method is crucial in ensuring that the patient is able to breathe adequately, thereby maintaining oxygenation and preventing hypoxia. The focus on maintaining a patent airway is particularly vital in cases where traditional head-tilt-chin-lift techniques could exacerbate existing neck or spinal injuries. Thus, the jaw thrust maneuver directly addresses the risk of airway obstruction from foreign bodies or anatomical impediments, making it the correct choice in this context.