WIP 05 - Evaluation of Safe-Sleep and Tummy-Time Book for Parents of Preemies

Publication Number: WIP 05.7603

Dimple Gajjar, Rush Medical College of Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States; Suhagi Kadakia, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, United States; Amber Mendres-Smith, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States; Brenda Hussey-Gardner, Division of Neonatology University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States; Alison Falck, UCSF, Carmel, CA, United States

Background: Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) remains a significant public health challenge in the United States, with approximately 3,700 cases annually. Although the implementation of safe sleep guidelines in the early 1990s led to a decline in Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome (SUIDS), the rates of accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed have increased since 1997. Premature infants are particularly vulnerable to SUID and are at heightened risk for neuromotor delays, which can be mitigated by practices like "tummy time." However, there is limited research on effective educational interventions that address both safe sleep and tummy time (SSTT) practices, especially for parents of preterm infants.

Objective: The objectives of the study are to: 1) develop an educational children’s book about SSTT specifically for parents of premature infants, 2) gather feedback on the book from parents, 3) evaluate the effectiveness of this book compared to standard educational practices on improving SSTT knowledge among parents of VLBW infants.

Design/Methods: This IRB approved, prospective qualitative study involves creating and evaluating the impact of a SSTT book specifically tailored for families with very low birth weight premature infants (birth weight < 1500 grams) in the NICU. Consenting participants are interviewed regarding their knowledge of SSTT then they read the SSTT book to their VLBW infant while in the NICU. The first follow-up interview is conducted within 24-48 hours of the parent reading the book and a second follow-up interview is conducted post-discharge. The semi-structured interviews are conducted face-to-face, are audio-recorded, and are designed to measure changes in understanding, behavior, and practices. Interviews are transcribed and coded concurrently with data analysis. Interviews will be conducted until we reach saturation of themes. To date, we have interviewed 4 families.