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Correct Answer: place the infant on the stomach after eating to allow digestion.
in caring for an infant, it is critical to follow safe practices to ensure the baby's health and safety. among the guidelines provided, the statement "place the infant on the stomach after eating to allow digestion" is incorrect and should be avoided. this advice contradicts recommended practices for several important reasons.
firstly, placing an infant on their stomach after feeding can increase the risk of aspiration. aspiration occurs when food or liquid is inhaled into the lungs, which can lead to breathing difficulties, coughing, and in severe cases, pneumonia. instead, it is safer to place the infant either on their back or on their side. this positioning helps keep the airway clear and reduces the risk of choking.
additionally, the safest position for sleeping infants, according to the american academy of pediatrics, is on their back. this position has been extensively promoted through the "back to sleep" campaign, which has successfully reduced the incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (sids). placing an infant on their stomach to sleep, especially after feeding, can unnecessarily increase the risk of sids.
it’s also important to consider that infants have different digestion and reflux issues. for those with reflux or certain medical conditions, pediatricians might recommend specific positions or strategies after feeding. however, these are usually carefully considered exceptions and should be followed under medical guidance.
in conclusion, the correct practice is to avoid placing an infant on their stomach after feeding. instead, place the infant on their back or side, which are safer positions that help in preventing aspiration and reducing the risk of sids. always consult with healthcare providers for guidance tailored to the specific health needs of the infant.
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