Conference presentation
Keeping baby close and safe: Awareness of the safe use of slings and baby carriers
ISA-ISPID Digital Conference, 2021 (Online, 11-Nov-2021 - 13-Nov-2021)
2021
Abstract
Background: Baby-wearing is an ancient practice; the norm in non-industrialised societies. Awareness of neurological and developmental benefits afforded to infants through close proximity and secure attachment to a nurturing caregiver has led to a resurgence of baby wearing using slings and baby carriers in Western societies. Infant deaths and injuries have been associated with the use of slings/baby carriers. This study aimed to determine prevalence of sling use and awareness of the TICKS principles relating to safe sling/baby carrier use in a contemporary parent cohort.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey of caregivers with infants approximately 3-months using the Queensland Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages as the sampling frame (n=10,200) explored infant sling/baby carrier use, awareness of the TICKS principles of sling safety (tight, in view, close enough to kiss, chin off chest, supported back) and hazards associated with sling use.
Results: Of respondents to sling use (n=3248) most had used a sling/ baby carrier since birth (85%); fewer (63%) had received advice/information about using the carrier/sling. Sling/carrier types included: Carrier/pack style (79%), wrap-around (18%), and over-shoulder slings (3%). Most caregivers (88%) reported baby had slept in the sling at some time, while 35% of parents identified that baby’s chin could touch their chest when using the device. Only 20% of parents had heard of the TICKS principles of sling safety.
Conclusions: Sling and carrier use is a common practice in Australia. Caregiver awareness of the hazards associated with sling use and the principles of safe sling/carrier safety is poor.
Details
- Title
- Keeping baby close and safe: Awareness of the safe use of slings and baby carriers
- Authors
- Jeanine Young (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine - LegacyRoni Cole (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine - LegacyTheresa Beane (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine - LegacyJohn Thompson (Author) - University of Auckland
- Conference details
- ISA-ISPID Digital Conference, 2021 (Online, 11-Nov-2021 - 13-Nov-2021)
- Organisation Unit
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health - Nursing
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99603943802621
- Output Type
- Conference presentation
Metrics
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