AANP Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Certification ExamPlanEasy
A 6-month-old infant is brought to the clinic for a well-child visit. The parents express concern about their child's risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and ask for preventive strategies. Which of the following is the most important recommendation the FNP should provide regarding infant sleep environment?
- AUse soft bedding, such as blankets and bumper pads, to keep the infant warm and comfortable.
- BPlace the infant to sleep on their side to prevent aspiration.
- CAllow the infant to co-sleep in the parents' bed for close monitoring.
- DPlace the infant to sleep on their back on a firm sleep surface.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Place the infant to sleep on their back on a firm sleep surface.
The most crucial recommendation for SIDS prevention is to place infants to sleep on their back on a firm sleep surface. This significantly reduces the risk of SIDS. Soft bedding and co-sleeping are associated with increased risk.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Soft bedding, including blankets, pillows, and bumper pads, should be avoided in the infant's sleep area as they increase the risk of suffocation and SIDS.
- B. Placing an infant on their side is not recommended as they can easily roll onto their stomach, which increases SIDS risk.
- C. Co-sleeping (sharing a bed with parents) increases the risk of SIDS and accidental suffocation. Room-sharing (infant in a separate sleep space in the parents' room) is recommended, but not bed-sharing.
SIDS Prevention (Sleep)
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) prevention focuses on creating a safe sleep environment for infants.
- Always place infants on their back to sleep.
- Use a firm sleep surface.
- Keep the sleep area free of soft bedding and loose items.
- Room-share, but do not bed-share.
Memory trick: Back to Sleep, Firm Bed, Clear Crib!