Hospital recognized for commitment to reducing infant sleep-related deaths
CMC is proud to announce that it has been certified by Cribs for Kids® as a Safe Sleep Leader in the National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program. This award recognizes hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to reducing infant sleep related deaths by promoting safe sleep practices and by providing education on infant sleep safety.
CMC is a Silver Certified Safe Sleep Leader, meeting criteria for developing and maintaining a Safe Sleep Policy including: providing staff training on infant safe sleep, providing education to new parents, and using wearable blankets in both the well-baby and Special Care nurseries. As part of the Safe Sleep Policy developed and adopted by The Mom’s Place and Special Care Nursery, some nurses have become Safe Sleep Ambassadors to coach staff members on how to talk with parents about their concerns. All staff members have completed a Safe Sleep Educational Program.
Every year about 3,500 infants die from sleep-related deaths in the U.S., but these cases can be reduced by following key Safe Sleep practices:
-Place baby alone, on his back, in a crib every time
-Use a firm flat sleep surface covered by a fitted sheet
-Share a room but not a bed
-Avoid bumpers, stuffed animals, and loose fluffy blankets
-Avoid overdressing and overheating
-Breastfeed
-Avoid smoke exposure during pregnancy and after the baby is born
“Having a Safe Sleep Policy is a no-brainer for The Mom’s Place and Special Care Nursery, where we are committed to the best care possible for new families,” says Nicole Pendenza, BSN, RNC-NIC, Director of Maternal, Child, and Women’s Health at CMC. “When we educate our staff and parents about these practices, we know we’re doing our part to ensure that baby reaches a happy, healthy first birthday.”