What is the recommended position for a newborn to help clear fluids from their airways?

The recommended position for a newborn to help clear fluids from their airways is to place them facedown or on their side. This positioning facilitates gravity's assistance in draining any excess fluid or mucus from the airways, thereby enhancing the newborn's ability to breathe more easily. When a newborn is positioned facedown or on their side, the airway is more likely to remain clear, reducing the risk of airway obstruction due to retained fluids.

In contrast, positioning a newborn face up or on their back can sometimes lead to an increased risk of fluid accumulation in the airway, particularly if they are experiencing respiratory distress or have secretions that need to be cleared. Placing a newborn seated upright is generally not recommended for airway clearance as this position does not facilitate gravity in the same way and may not provide the necessary access for fluid drainage. Thus, the facedown or side position is the most effective strategy to address airway clearance in newborns.