What is a key precaution when performing head lift/chin tilt on an infant?

When performing the head lift/chin tilt maneuver on an infant, maintaining the head in a neutral position is crucial. This method is designed to open the airway without causing any potential obstruction or injury. In infants, the airway is unique and more sensitive than in adults. The neutral position helps align the airway for optimal breathing, allowing any blockages to be resolved without causing further complications.

Extending the head back too far can lead to airway compression or obstruction, as infants have proportionally larger heads and softer, more flexible necks. This can result in making the situation worse rather than improving it. Turning the head to the side is not appropriate for this maneuver, as it could also obstruct the airway. Similarly, applying pressure on the chest is not relevant in this context and could interfere with the infant’s ability to breathe or cause further issues. Therefore, keeping the head in a neutral position reflects the best practice for ensuring an unobstructed airway during resuscitation efforts.