Final answer:
To open the airway during the initial steps for an infant, gently tilt their head backwards while keeping the neck straight, ensuring the airway is clear and unobstructed.
Step-by-step explanation:
To open the airway during the initial steps for an infant, their head should be positioned in a way that ensures their airway is clear and unobstructed. This is done by gently tilting the infant's head backwards while keeping their neck straight. By doing so, the airway is straightened, allowing for proper airflow.
It's important to note that excessive tilting or bending the head too far back can block the airway, so it's crucial to be gentle. Additionally, it's recommended to use the fingers rather than the palm of your hand to support the head, as the infant's neck muscles are still developing and are not strong enough to fully support their head.
For example, when performing CPR on an infant, you would place two fingers on the middle of their chest and give compressions while ensuring the head is kept in the correct position for optimal airway opening.