SGMC Health recognized as a Gold Safe Sleep Hospital for infant safe sleep

VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - South Georgia Medical Center (SGMC) Health has been recognized by the National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program as a Gold Safe Sleep Hospital.

This program created by Cribs for Kids®, a national infant safe sleep organization, awards recognition to hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to reducing sleep-related deaths in infants. SGMC Health’s Gold recognition is the highest designation the program offers, according to the release.

This recognition is achieved by promotion and education regarding best safe sleep practices recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Sudden unexpected infant death (SUID, formerly known as SIDS) is a term used to describe the unexpected death of a baby less than one year old when there is no apparent cause. These deaths often happen during sleep, further investigation revealing the baby was unable to breathe modeling safe infant sleep in the hospital and providing education to families.

“Sleep-Related Death (SRD) results in the loss of more than 3,500 infants every year in the U.S.,” said Michael H. Goodstein, MD, neonatologist and medical director of research at Cribs for Kids®. “We know that modeling safe infant sleep in the hospital and providing education to families has a significant effect on infant mortality.”

SGMC Health Birthplace professional staff screen all babies born at the hospital to ensure every newborn has a safe space to sleep at home. Through a partnership with the SGMC Foundation, babies who are in need of a safe sleeping place are given a bassinet.

The Foundation also provides a new swaddle to each family featuring a “back is best” embroidery to remind caregivers of proper sleep positioning at no cost due to donations.

“This is a great example of how generous donations to the Foundation can enhance the care and well-being of the newest members of our communities,” said Hilary Gibbs, SGMC Health Vice President and Chief Development Officer.

For more information on the Cribs for Kids® National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program, click here.