How should you check for responsiveness in an infant?

In infants, checking for responsiveness requires a gentle approach due to their delicate nature. Tapping the foot is an appropriate and effective method for assessing responsiveness in an infant. This technique allows for a non-invasive and gentle stimulation that can elicit a response without causing distress. Infants are often more responsive to tactile stimulation on their feet or chest rather than shoulder or head regions because they are still developing motor control and awareness.

Additionally, methods like shaking gently or calling out loudly are not suitable for this age group. Shaking can pose a risk of injury, and sudden loud noises may startle the infant rather than provide a reliable response indicator. Therefore, tapping the foot is a safe and appropriate choice for determining an infant's responsiveness.