Final answer:
To minimize the risk of gastric distention and aspiration, a baby should be placed upright during and after feeding. This position aids in reducing reflux by utilising gravity.
Step-by-step explanation:
To prevent gastric distention that contributes to esophageal reflux and to lower the risk of aspiration, infants should generally be positioned in a way that keeps their esophagus above the stomach. The best position that accounts for these factors is to place the baby upright.
This position utilizes gravity to help control the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, similar to how sleeping with the head of the bed elevated can benefit adults with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Additionally, ensuring that a baby is placed on their back to sleep, without soft bedding materials, can help prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and subsequent aspiration risks.