…neutral position.
Support the jaw at the chin and keep the mouth open without pressing on the soft tissues of the neck.
If the airway still isn’t clear, the head may be tilted backwards very slightly and gently.
Excessive extension can actually contribute to airway obstruction in a small infant.
Current ANZCOR Guideline 4 continues to recommend a neutral infant head position and avoiding maximum backward head tilt.
Adults and children: head tilt–chin lift.
Infants: neutral position first.
Tomorrow is Tip #300—and we’re finishing the Ready Check with something every first aider may need to do: make the 111 call.
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Acknowledgement
We fact-check data and information against recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. Protocols vary, and we note differences where necessary.