Your little one is due to arrive soon, and you and your partner are anxiously awaiting your baby’s birth. While you are finalizing your birth plan and baby name options, make sure to also spend time on a critical piece of your newborn’s overall health: sleep safety.
In the state of Kentucky, an infant passes away from a sleep-related risk factor every four days. A majority of these deaths are related to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and have at least one unsafe sleep factor.
The ABCDs of safe sleep
It’s so important to understand the basics of newborn safe sleep. As a healthcare partner in the Northern Kentucky community, St. Elizabeth Healthcare is committed to helping our patients create safe sleep environments for their babies, starting from your baby’s very first night at The Family Birth Place.
Once you arrive home with your little one, our experts recommend following the ABCDs of safe sleep:
A – Alone:
Babies should always sleep alone. It’s safe for your baby to sleep in the same room as you; however, your baby needs to sleep in their crib or bassinet. Additionally, make sure your baby’s sleep space has:
- No crib bumpers
- No toys
- No pillows
- No blankets
B – Back:
Babies should always be placed on their backs to fall asleep, both during naps and at bedtime. Use a firm mattress in the crib, bassinet or Pack ‘n Play to reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS. Soft mattresses and bedding are a leading cause of SIDS. Never put your baby to sleep on a soft surface like your bed, the family room couch or any chairs.
C – Crib:
The safest place for a baby to sleep is in his or her crib with only a fitted sheet. If you are worried about your baby getting cold, speak to your child’s pediatrician about a sleeper that is safe to wear at night.
D – Danger:
Make sure you are always aware – not impaired. Smoking, drinking alcohol or using drugs while in care of your baby impairs your ability to care for him or her. It also increases the risk of an unsafe sleep-related incident.
Learn more about sleep safety with St. Elizabeth
At St. Elizabeth Healthcare, it’s our goal to help parents and caregivers learn how to create a safe sleep environment for their baby. Our team of dedicated healthcare experts offer a variety of resources and support, including a must-see SIDS video. If you would like more information about safe sleep, please contact Tabatha Biddle at (859) 301-9470.
