October is Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month, and Mount Nittany Health is raising awareness of the importance of safe sleep practices in keeping infants healthy and reducing the risk of sleep-related deaths.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants sleep:
- On their backs for naps and at night.
- On a firm, flat sleep surface, such as a safety-approved crib, bassinet or portable play yard covered only by a fitted sheet.
- In a wearable blanket without loose blankets.
- In the same room as parents but not in the same bed.
- Without pillows, blankets, toys or other objects in the sleep area.
“Following safe sleep guidelines is one of the most important steps parents and caregivers can take to protect their baby’s health,” said Dr. Lilian McKinley, Pediatrician at Mount Nittany Health. “Simple measures, like placing a baby on their back to sleep and using a sleep sack instead of loose blankets, can make a life-saving difference.”
Mount Nittany Health is dedicated to supporting families by providing education, resources and tools to create a safe sleep environment for their babies. Generously funded by the Mount Nittany Health Foundation, every newborn receives a sleep sack to go home with. Mount Nittany Health is also proud to be part of the Pennsylvania Perinatal Quality Collaborative, working alongside healthcare organizations across the state to implement evidence-based practices and improve outcomes for mothers and babies.
“Safe sleep is not only about reducing risk, it’s about giving families peace of mind,” added Dr. McKinley. “We want parents to feel confident that they have the tools and knowledge to help their babies sleep safely.”
Mount Nittany Medical Center, for three years in a row, has been named one of America’s Best Maternity Hospitals by Newsweek. Mount Nittany was also awarded a Bronze Designation this year for Safe Sleep as part of their quality improvement work with the Pennsylvania Perinatal Quality Collaborative. Welcoming over 1,300 babies each year, Mount Nittany Health is proud to be a trusted partner for families throughout the region.