What position should the airway be opened to when providing ventilations to an infant?

The airway should be opened to a neutral position when providing ventilations to an infant. This position aligns the head in a way that helps maintain an open airway while preventing the potential obstruction that can occur if the head is flexed too far forward or extended too far back.

In the neutral position, the infant's head is in a straight line with the body, reducing the risk of airway compromise. It's essential to ensure that the airway is clear and unobstructed for effective rescue breaths, as infants have anatomical differences compared to older children and adults, such as larger heads in proportion to their bodies and a shorter neck. This emphasizes the necessity of correctly positioning the head to ensure adequate ventilation.

In contrast, a flexed position might lead to restriction of airway flow due to the angle created, while an extended position can also cause the airway to be obstructed by the structures within the throat. A turned position is not appropriate as it could disrupt the direct airflow into the lungs. Therefore, maintaining the head and neck in a neutral alignment is critical for effective life support in infants.