What describes the correct technique for opening a patient's mouth using the cross-finger technique?

The cross-finger technique for opening a patient's mouth involves placing your index finger on the upper teeth and your thumb on the lower teeth, after which you gently spread the fingers apart. This method effectively allows for controlled opening of the mouth, which is crucial in various emergency situations where airway management is a priority.

Using this technique, the index finger helps to stabilize the upper jaw while the thumb provides a secure point of leverage on the lower jaw, creating a safe and effective opening without causing undue stress or risk to the patient’s dental structures. This is particularly important when dealing with patients who may have reduced responsiveness or where airway obstruction is a concern.

Other methods such as using the palm to hold the mouth open or pushing down with the thumb on the lower jaw may not provide the same level of control and may inadvertently cause injury or discomfort. Similarly, placing the index finger in an incorrect position, as suggested in other options, does not offer the necessary stability for optimal airway access.