A device and method for performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on a patient. The device is an extendable airway bridge which is initially in a collapsed or storage configuration. The airway bridge is made of a lightweight, inexpensive material such as high strength cardboard. Upon use, the airway bridge is unfolded and then fixed into an operating configuration through a number of hook and latch fabric portions or an adhesive or glue. Once in the operating configuration, the patient is laid onto the airway bridge which holds the patient in a position so as to prevent occlusion of the patient's oral airway. CPR may then be performed on the patient. After use, the airway bridge may be released and then brought back into the collapsed or storage configuration or, alternatively, simply disposed of.
