News Information

Schneck Partners with Kiwanis in Safe Sleep Project
July 16, 2009

Seymour, Ind.-Babies born at Schneck Medical Center will now be going home with a special SleepSack thanks to a grant from the Kiwanis. It's all part of the hospital's collaborative effort to provide a safe and healthy sleep environment for the babies.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected death of an infant that occurs generally from one month to one year of age. More than 2,500 seemingly healthy babies die of SIDS each year. Twenty five percent of the time babies who die of SIDS are found with a blanket covering their face.

The SleepSack that Schneck is handing out eliminates the need for extra blankets in the crib, reducing the likelihood of SIDS. These sacks, which are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Consumer Products Safety Commission, keep babies cozy, warm, and safe.

The staff at Schneck provides parents with baby care education before discharge from the hospital which includes a list of safe sleeping tips for babies:
- Place babies on their backs to sleep.
- Use a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib.
- Eliminate all soft and loose bedding from baby's crib including bumper pads, positioners, and wedges.
- Use a SleepSack wearable blanket instead of loose blankets in the crib.
- Keep baby's face clear of coverings.
- Make sure your crib sheet fits snug on your mattress.
- Never use an adult sheet on a crib mattress, it can come loose, your baby can become entangled, and their breathing can become restricted.
- Be aware of room temperature and clothing to ensure baby does not become overheated.
- Don't allow anyone to smoke around your baby.
- Consider room sharing instead of bed sharing.

"We feel these sleep sacks are so important," said Peggy Findley, RNC-OB, MSN, Director of Women and Children Services at Schneck. "When an infant is being a little fussy, they often settle down once they are swaddled and feel the comfort of the SleepSack. The moms and dads have told us how much safer they feel with their babies wearing the SleepSack at night and nap time."

For more info on SIDS or reducing the risk of infant death, visit www.firstcandle.org or call 1-800-221-7437.