What position should an infant be placed in during a choking emergency?

In a choking emergency, placing an infant over your lap is the recommended position because it allows for effective first aid techniques, particularly back blows and chest thrusts, to clear the airway. This positioning enables the caregiver to have better control and leverage to perform these techniques. The infant's body can be supported in a way that gravity assists in dislodging the object causing the choking, as the infant is safely cradled over the caregiver's thigh.

The other options do not provide the same level of safety and effectiveness. For instance, laying the infant flat on their back on a surface could make it more difficult to perform necessary life-saving maneuvers and may increase the risk of aspiration. Keeping the infant upright could also be less effective since it may not allow gravity to assist in dislodging the obstruction. Holding the infant against your shoulder might not provide the stability needed for delivering the necessary thrusts. Using the appropriate technique and positioning is critical in these situations to maximize the chances of successfully resolving choking.