To place a child’s head in a neutral position after a fall, where should you place a folded towel?

• A. Under the head
• B. Under the shoulders
• C. Under the knees
• D. Under the chest

Answer: (B)

Think about keeping the airway open by keeping the head, neck, and spine in a straight, natural line. Placing a folded towel under the shoulders elevates the upper body just enough so the head rests in a neutral position—not tilted forward or backward. This helps prevent the tongue from blocking the airway and avoids stressing the neck or misaligning the spine.

Putting the towel under the head would tilt the head back too much in many kids, which can narrow or close the airway. Under the knees doesn’t address head and neck alignment, and under the chest changes torso position in a way that doesn’t help the head stay neutral.