Question

Where should padding be placed to open a child's airway?

1) On the back of the child's head
2) In the child's mouth
3) On the child's forehead
4) On the child's chest

Answer 1

To open a child's airway, padding should be placed on the child's forehead, which helps to tilt the head back and lift the chin, thereby opening the airway. This position is important for maintaining an unobstructed airway and differs from procedures for addressing choking, where back slaps and the Heimlich maneuver may be used.

Step-by-step explanation:

To open a child's airway, padding should be placed on the child's forehead. This helps to tilt the head back slightly which lifts the chin away from the chest, opening the airway. It is important to ensure that the padding such as a folded towel is not too thick, as too much of an angle can block the airway. Placing padding on the back of the child's head could cause further obstruction.

In situations where a child is choking, different procedures are recommended. For an infant, gently turning them upside down and delivering firm back slaps may help dislodge an object. For an older person, first encourage coughing, then use back slaps, and if necessary, perform the Heimlich maneuver. Always seek emergency medical help if you are unsuccessful.

It is also important to be mindful of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) recommendations, such as placing infants on their backs to sleep without soft objects like blankets or pillows that can pose suffocation risks.