UPMC Hospitals Recognized for Excellence in Infant Safe Sleep
By: Sierra Lomax
UPMC’s 15 birthing hospitals have been recognized by Cribs for Kids as Gold Safe Sleep Hospitals, which is the highest designation in the organization’s National Safe Sleep Certification program.
This designation means that every patient across UPMC, under the age of one, is ensured safe sleep care, and their caregivers are educated in safe sleep practices. Cribs for Kids cited UPMC’s leadership and health care team members’ commitment to best practices, education, and community outreach as commendable.
Safe sleep practices can prevent sudden unexpected infant death (and reduce other sleep-related risks and injuries. Safe sleep practices are easily remembered with “ABCD”:
Alone: Babies should sleep alone and next to your bed until 12 months of age if possible.
Back: Put your baby to sleep on their back, not their side or tummy.
Clean, clear crib: Your baby should be placed on a firm sleep surface, and you should never place objects like bumper pads, pillows, or stuffed animals in the crib with them.
Danger: Be aware, not impaired, so you remain able to care for your baby and avoid smoking or vaping near your baby to avoid the dangers of secondhand smoke and chemicals.
