What Your Nanny Needs to Learn about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is an unexplained and unexpected phenomenon feared by parents and nannies all over the world. The CDC describes it as “the sudden and unexpected death of a baby less than 1 year old in which the cause was not obvious before investigation.” And most of these deaths occur during a baby’s sleep time or around their sleeping area.

In the past, all unexplained baby deaths were lumped as SIDS. But since the Back to Sleep Campaign — now Safe to Sleep — by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, sudden infant mortality numbers have decreased. This shows that a number of SIDS cases may be because of accidental suffocation during a child's sleep. In 2019 alone, there were 960 deaths caused by accidental strangulation and suffocation alone.

So, to keep your baby safe, it's important that your nanny — and you — practice safe sleep methods around your baby.

In this blog post, we'll go through some of these preventive measures, along with other ways to prevent SIDS.

Nannies and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

1. Use A Firm Bed: Your baby's crib should have a firm bed with a flat surface. Avoid frills and extras. A plain bed with a clean, fitted sheet is okay. A bed that's too soft may pose a suffocation hazard.

2. Place Your Baby on Their Back: Always keep your baby on their back when they sleep. You can do this until they're at least 4-5 months old, or until they start rolling around.

There's also no need to swaddle your baby once they know how to roll. Restraining their limbs may prevent your child from easily turning over when turned on their bellies.

3. Declutter: Keep your baby's room and cot free of toys, stuffed animals, blankets, and anything that may become a choking hazard.

4. Have Shared Rooms: It's advisable to sleep in the same room as your baby for at least the first 6 months. That way, you can properly monitor your child's sleep and respond when you notice a crisis. Remember, it's shared rooms and not shared beds.

5. Don't Overclothe: Babies can be overdressed too.

Too many layers of clothing can cause heat-related accidents. Instead of heavy wools or multiple layers, use light but warm clothes. A good rule is that babies only need one more layer than you. Also, do not cover them with a blanket while they sleep

6. Keep the Baby  From Smoke: This seems like a no-brainer, but it's important you keep the baby — and yourselves — from smoking. Keep their room well-ventilated and airy. It should also be far from the kitchen.

7. Only Use Designated Sleep Devices: Always put your sleepy baby to bed in a crib. Don't let them fall asleep in devices that aren't meant for sleeping, like bouncy chairs or high chairs.

SIDS is unexpected, but it doesn't mean it cannot be guarded against. Practicing safe sleep measures is a great way to prevent its occurrence and keep your baby safe. Your baby's nanny should also be familiar with these approved guidelines. If they aren't, it might be time to switch to nannies who are.

The Elite Nanny Team provides professional and highly qualified nannies to cater to your child's every need. All our nannies undergo a rigorous selection process and are trained to help you keep your baby safe...always.