SAFE SLEEP

The content on this blog is provided by a registered nurse who is also a professional photographer. All health information presented is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided on this blog: is general in nature and not specific to you or your child's unique health circumstances, does not establish a nurse-patient relationship, is separate from any clinical care I may provide in my professional nursing capacity, and should be viewed as educational content rather than personalized medical guidance. While my goal is to provide accurate and up-to-date information from reputable sources, healthcare practices and recommendations may change over time. Always seek the most current medical research or guidelines. Always consult your pediatrician, family physician, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding your or your child's health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. If you believe you or your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services (911 in the U.S.) immediately. I expressly disclaim all liability relating to actions taken or not taken based on any content on this blog. The use of information provided here is strictly at your own risk.

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While the topic of safe sleep may come with many opposing views, this blog is meant to inform you of what safe sleep is according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (www.aap.org). First, it is important to discuss what SUID and SIDS mean. SUID is Sudden Unexpected Infant Death, which includes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). After case investigation, it may be determined that an unexpected death was caused by a specific unnatural or natural etiology (cause), such as suffocation, entrapment, infection, metabolic disease, etc. Unexplained sudden death in infancy (SIDS) is a cause of death that cannot be explained after a thorough case investigation. SUID is the leading cause of injury death in infancy. Following safe sleep recommendations can prevent many SUID fatalities. While the rate of sleep-related infant deaths declined significantly in the 1990's after the AAP and others recommended babies sleep on their backs, rates have since plateaued and SIDS remains the leading cause of post-neonatal mortality (death occurring between the age 28 days and 364 days). Recommendations are to : place infants on their backs for sleep in their own sleep space with no other people; use a crib or bassinet or portable play yard with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet; avoid sleep on a couch or armchair or in a seating device, like a swing or car safety seat (except when riding in the car); keep loose blankets (also avoid overheating and head covering), pillows, stuffed toys, bumpers and other soft items out of the sleep space; breastfeed if possible; avoid nicotine, marijuana, alcohol, and other illicit drugs during pregnancy and after birth; offer a pacifier at bedtime and nap-time. It is recommended that infants sleep in the parents' room, close to the bed, but on a separate surface, ideally for the first 6 months. Visit www.aap.org for additional information.

I have been there in my own parenting journey, the feeling of pure exhaustion. However, what I've learned professionally is that bed-sharing creates significant risks for babies. And while those nighttime hours can be incredibly challenging, consider alternatives such as a bedside bassinet, taking turns with your partner and/or accepting help from family and friends during the day so you can rest. As your baby gets older, they will begin to sleep for longer stretches. And then, so will you! As both a nurse and photographer, I'm passionate about helping you create a safe environment for your little one. If you would like to schedule a photography session that captures these precious early moments safely, please reach out.

Warmly,

Dawn Faaborg, Arizona Bloom Photography