Which mattress type is recommended to reduce SIDS risk?

Which mattress type is recommended to reduce SIDS risk?

• A. Soft, plush mattress
• B. Waterbed
• C. Air mattress with pillows
• D. Firm, tight-fitting mattress

Answer: (D)

The main concept is providing a safe sleep environment to reduce the risk of SIDS by using a firm, flat surface. A firm, tight-fitting mattress stays level and fits snugly in the crib, so the infant’s airway stays open and there are no gaps where the baby can become entrapped or wedged. Soft, plush mattresses can indent and allow rebreathing of exhaled air, increasing suffocation risk. Waterbeds and air mattresses can be unstable or have gaps that create entrapment hazards. For these reasons, a firm, tight-fitting mattress is the best choice for reducing SIDS risk.

The main concept is providing a safe sleep environment to reduce the risk of SIDS by using a firm, flat surface. A firm, tight-fitting mattress stays level and fits snugly in the crib, so the infant’s airway stays open and there are no gaps where the baby can become entrapped or wedged. Soft, plush mattresses can indent and allow rebreathing of exhaled air, increasing suffocation risk. Waterbeds and air mattresses can be unstable or have gaps that create entrapment hazards. For these reasons, a firm, tight-fitting mattress is the best choice for reducing SIDS risk.