A word of caution on newborn sleep positioners
While there are plenty of baby products on the market, a firm flat surface and some bedding are all that is necessary to keep your baby safe.
Parents and caregivers are being advised not to place infants in sleep positioners because they can force a baby to fight to breathe, which can result in death.
The Food and Drug Administration issued the above warning in response to reports of babies dying from asphyxia caused by sleep positioners, often known as nests or anti-roll wedges. The babies suffocated in most cases after rolling from their sides to their stomachs.
Baby “nests” to provide extra cushioning and keep a baby in position or wedges used to lift a baby’s head are two of the most frequent types of sleep positioners available on the market. The positioners are designed to keep infants under six months old in a specified sleeping position. Often positioners are marketed to parents as a way to help your baby sleep better and longer.
Infants should sleep on their backs on a solid sleep surface, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). There should be no soft objects, toys, pillows, or loose bedding on this surface.
ABCs of safe newborn sleep
Follow the ABCs of safe newborn sleep to lower the risk of sleep-related infant deaths, such as accidental suffocation and sudden infant death syndrome: Alone on the Back in a bare Crib.
Dangers of bouncer seats
Bouncer seats support newborns while allowing them to bounce in a reclining position. 347 occurrences with bouncer seats have been documented since 2006, including 12 deaths, concussions, and skull fractures. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, infant bouncer seats should be situated in stable locations, and safety straps should be utilised to prevent newborns from falling.
To prevent injuries, follow these guidelines:
- Never use the bouncer on a countertop, table, or other raised surface.
- Never place the bouncer on a bed, sofa, or other soft surfaces because babies have died after being suffocated when bouncers flipped over onto soft surfaces.
- Always use restraints and make sure they fit snugly.
- Keep a close eye on your baby at all times.
- Stop using the bouncer when your baby can sit on their own or meets the weight limit specified on the bouncer.
