PCASJC Partners with local hospitals
to promote Safe Sleep & Preventing Abuse

PCASJC is taking steps with Beacon and St. Joseph Health Systems to prevent child abuse and promote safe sleep. PCASJC is providing the prenatal departments at Memorial and St. Joseph hospitals with onesies and informational cards for new parents. As parents complete prenatal education classes at each health system, they will receive the baby onsie with reminders printed right on them about Safe Sleep, and the fragility of an infant.

According to the Mayo Clinic,
Shaken Baby Syndrome is a leading cause of child abuse-related deaths in the United States. Shaken baby syndrome usually occurs when a parent or caregiver severely shakes a child in frustration or anger, often because the child won't stop crying. Permanent brain damage or death may result. Giving new parents tips on how to remain calm during times of stress is a key to prevent abuse.

Place the baby on his or her back on a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet with a tight-fitting sheet.
Avoid use of soft bedding, including crib bumpers, blankets, pillows and soft toys. The crib should be bare.
Share a bedroom with parents, but not the same sleeping surface, preferably until the baby turns 1 but at least for the first six months. Room-sharing decreases the risk of SIDS by as much as 50 percent.
Avoid baby's exposure to smoke, alcohol and illicit drugs.