Recommendations for Creating a Safe Sleeping Environment for Infants

The American Academy of Pediatrics Task Force on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome has updated its recommendations for reducing the risk for sleep-related infant death.

Despite the reduction in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) mortality since the 1990s, SIDS and sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) remain a tragedy for many families. The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a policy statement providing updated evidence-based recommendations for a safe infant sleeping environment.

Among the recommendations for infants up to 1 year of age:

Infants should always be placed for sleep in the supine position.
Infants should sleep on a firm surface.
Breast feeding is recommended, as it is associated with reduced risk for SIDS.
Infants should sleep in the same room with parents — but not in the same bed — until at least 6 months of age.
Avoid bed sharing for infants <4 months of age, premature infants, and infan…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

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Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

Recommendations for Creating a Safe Sleeping Environment for Infants

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Reviewing Author