AAP: Infant Sleeper Should Be Recalled Immediately

By Amy Orciari Herman

Edited by David G. Fairchild, MD, MPH, and Lorenzo Di Francesco, MD, FACP, FHM

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is urging the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to recall the Fisher-Price Rock 'n Play Sleeper amid reports of dozens of sleep-related infant deaths associated with the product.

On Apr. 5, the CPSC warned caregivers to not use the sleeper after infants reach 3 months of age or have learned to roll over, citing 10 related deaths since 2015. Subsequently, Consumer Reports said it knows of 32 deaths associated with the sleeper since 2011, some involving infants younger than 3 months. The cause of death is listed as asphyxia in some.

The AAP says the CPSC warning "did not go far enough to ensure safety and protect infants." The group's president added, "This product is deadly and should be recalled immediately."

The AAP advises parents not to use any inclined product with restraints for infant sleep, as the baby could roll over and not be able to move, potentially leading to asphyxiation or strangulation.