How should the baby be positioned after delivery?

• A. Head higher than the rest of the body
• B. Head slightly lower than the rest of the body
• C. Supine with arms outstretched
• D. Head turned to the side

Answer: (B)

Airway management after birth is the main idea here. The newborn’s airway needs to be kept clear and breathing supported as needed. Positioning the baby with the head slightly lower than the rest of the body helps gravity assist in maintaining an open airway and makes it easier to clear secretions from the mouth and nose if suctioning is required. This slight tilt avoids excessive neck extension or turning the head, which can complicate airway access in a very small patient. In contrast, elevating the head too much, turning the head to the side, or keeping the baby in a strictly supine position with arms outstretched does not optimize airway patency or suction access during these initial moments after birth.