In a pediatric head injury, placing a folded towel under the shoulders helps place the head in what position?

• A. Align the spine
• B. Place head in neutral
• C. Elevate the chest
• D. Stabilize the pelvis

Answer: (B)

The situation tests how to position the head to protect the airway while keeping the neck in a stable, non-extreme alignment. Placing a folded towel under the shoulders helps bring the head into a neutral position relative to the spine. This means the head isn’t tipped too far forward or backward, so the airway stays open and the cervical spine remains in alignment during assessment and care. By lifting the shoulders slightly, you allow the head to rest in a straight line with the torso, which minimizes movement at the neck and reduces the risk of worsening a potential spine injury. This approach is specifically about achieving a neutral head position for airway management and spinal protection, not about elevating the chest or stabilizing the pelvis.