Final answer:
Two safe ways to hold an infant are the cradle hold and the shoulder hold, both of which support the baby's head and neck. It's essential to ensure a safe sleeping environment by placing infants on their backs and keeping the crib free of suffocation hazards. Gentle and caring handling is beneficial for an infant's development and comfort.
Step-by-step explanation:
Two safe ways to hold an infant include the cradle hold, where the infant's head is cradled in the crook of the arm, and the shoulder hold, in which the baby rests on your shoulder with their head supported by your hand. The cradle hold is particularly useful for feeding or when the baby is relaxed, while the shoulder hold allows the infant to look around and engage with the environment. Both positions support an infant's developing head and neck muscles, as newborns develop the ability to hold their head up within the first two months. It's crucial that any objects which could pose suffocation hazards, such as pillows or loose blankets, are not near the infant during these times.
When putting an infant down to sleep, it's imperative to place them on their back to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Ensuring a smoke-free environment and avoiding the use of caps when sleeping also contribute to safer sleeping conditions. The sense of touch is highly developed in newborns, so gentle holding and touch are not only comforting but necessary for their emotional development. If an infant is choking, it is essential to turn them upside down and gently tap their back to dislodge the object, quite distinct from the approaches taken for adults.