Positional asphyxia is an accidental form of suffocation that can occur when a baby is placed in the wrong position. To help prevent this condition, it is important to follow certain guidelines for safe sleep.
Creating a Safe Sleeping Environment
To create a safe sleeping environment for your baby, you should:
• Always put your baby to sleep on their back.
• Use a firm, flat mattress and no extra bedding.
• Keep the room temperature comfortable and avoid overheating.
• Make sure there are no loose objects in the crib, such as blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, etc.
• Keep the crib away from windows and draperies.
Positioning the Baby's Body
When putting your baby to sleep, it is important to position their body correctly:
• Place the baby's head slightly higher than their feet, with their chin slightly elevated.
• Make sure the baby's arms and legs are straight and not bent or crossed.
• Do not put any additional pillows or blankets in the crib.
Monitoring Your Baby's Sleep
You should also monitor your baby's sleep on a regular basis to ensure they are sleeping in a safe position. If you notice that your baby is sleeping in a position that does not meet the guidelines above, you should move them into a safer position.
You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of positional asphyxia, which include difficulty breathing, gasping or choking, and changes in skin color. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
By following the guidelines for safe sleep and monitoring your baby's sleep, you can help reduce the risk of positional asphyxia.