HSE Advises Safe Use of Baby Slings..
Dublin: The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued important safety advice to parents regarding the use of baby slings, emphasising that infants should always be positioned in a way that allows their head to be close enough to be kissed by the mother. Dr. Abigail Collins, the HSE’s Head of Child Health, stated that key safety guidelines—including the safe use of slings—have been provided to breastfeeding groups and other support networks for new mothers across Ireland since last year.
A Tragic Reminder: The Case of Ruadhán Bradshaw-Hall
The HSE’s updated advice follows the tragic death of Ruadhán Bradshaw-Hall, a five-week-old infant who passed away from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in December 2022. An inquest revealed that the use of a baby sling had compromised Ruadhán’s ability to breathe properly. Despite receiving medical treatment for 11 days, he succumbed to his condition. Ruadhán’s parents, Sinead and Keith Bradshaw from Garristown, expressed their distress over the incident and called on the HSE to raise public awareness about the potential dangers of improper sling use.
Baby Slings: Useful But Risky
The HSE acknowledges that while baby carriers and slings can be beneficial, they also pose risks if not used correctly. These devices may not be suitable for all babies, particularly newborns, premature infants, or babies lacking head control. To help parents avoid accidents, the HSE has made detailed safety guidance available on its website, ‘MyChild.ie’, covering proper sling use and safe sleeping practices for infants.
Safety Guidelines for Using Baby Slings:
– Positioning: Always place the baby upright, with their head supported and close enough to the parent’s chin. The baby should be in a position where the mother can easily kiss the top of the baby’s head or forehead.
– Breathing: Ensure that the baby’s face is always visible, with no material or clothing obstructing it. The baby’s chin should be kept away from the chest to maintain clear breathing passages.
– Support: Avoid using loose or soft back supports, as these can hinder proper breathing. Natural support that aligns with the baby’s body is essential.
– Temperature: Be mindful of overheating. Keep the baby at a comfortable temperature and avoid excessive layers or warmth.
– Feeding: Extra care should be taken when breastfeeding in the sling. Once the baby finishes feeding or falls asleep, they should be removed from the sling or carrier to prevent suffocation risks.
– Upright Position: The safest position for a baby in a sling is upright, allowing for natural breathing. Babies should not be left in the sling while sleeping, as this may obstruct their nose and mouth.
By following these guidelines, parents can use baby slings safely while minimising risks. The HSE’s updated advice aims to prevent tragedies like Ruadhán’s and to promote safe practices for all families using baby carriers.
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