Written Procedures for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) or Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), Coping with Crying Babies, Safe Sleeping Practices, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness
Written Procedures for the Prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) or Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), Coping with Crying Babies, Safe Sleeping Practices, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness
For Common Ground Childcare
Purpose:
This procedure outlines specific guidelines for Common Ground Childcare staff and caregivers to prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) or Abusive Head Trauma (AHT), promote safe strategies for dealing with crying infants, and raise awareness on Safe Sleeping Practices and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). These protocols ensure the well-being and safety of infants under the care of Common Ground Childcare.
1. Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) or Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) Prevention
1.1 Understanding SBS/AHT
Definition: Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) or Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) is caused by violent shaking or blunt force trauma to an infant, which can result in brain injury, permanent disability, or death.
High-Risk Period: SBS/AHT commonly occurs in infants younger than one year, especially during periods of excessive crying.
1.2 Prevention Guidelines for Common Ground Childcare Staff
Staff Education:
All Common Ground Childcare staff will undergo mandatory training on the dangers of shaking babies, the consequences of SBS/AHT, and the importance of remaining calm and patient during stressful situations.
Handle Crying with Care and Patience:
Staff must always remain calm and never shake a baby in frustration, regardless of how inconsolable the baby appears.
Crying is a natural developmental phase for infants and toddlers, and staff should expect and prepare to deal with it constructively.
Staff Support System:
If a staff member feels overwhelmed, they are encouraged to notify a colleague or supervisor immediately to take a short break.
Common Ground Childcare has designated staff members available for assistance to ensure no caregiver reaches a breaking point.
Prohibited Actions:
Under no circumstances are physical punishment, force, or shaking permitted as a form of response to any child’s behavior, including excessive crying.
2. Coping with Crying Babies
2.1 Crying as Normal Infant Behavior
Crying is a baby's primary form of communication, especially during their first year. It may indicate hunger, discomfort, tiredness, or overstimulation.
2.2 Safe Techniques to Soothe a Crying Baby at Common Ground Childcare
Address Basic Needs:
Ensure the baby is fed, dry, comfortable, and not experiencing pain or discomfort.
Check for common irritants like dirty diapers or excessive heat or cold.
Comfort Strategies:
Staff may try soothing techniques such as gently rocking the baby, offering a pacifier, or speaking to the baby in a soft, calming voice.
Swaddling in a soft blanket (if appropriate for the infant's age and childcare regulations) or gently patting the baby’s back may help to calm them.
Creating a Calm Environment:
Staff will reduce stimuli in the baby’s surroundings, such as loud noises or bright lights, which could be contributing to the baby's distress.
Step Away When Necessary:
If a caregiver feels frustrated, they must place the baby in a safe place (e.g., crib) and take a short break. A supervisor must be notified so another caregiver can assist.
Communication with Parents:
Staff will communicate regularly with parents about any notable patterns of crying or distress that the child experiences, offering support and sharing effective soothing techniques that work during the day.
3. Safe Sleeping Practices for Babies at Common Ground Childcare
3.1 Safe Sleep Guidelines
Back-to-Sleep Position:
Staff must always place infants on their backs to sleep for naps and at night. This position is the safest and reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Firm Sleep Surfaces:
All cribs at Common Ground Childcare will be equipped with firm, flat mattresses and fitted sheets. No soft bedding or pillows are allowed.
No Soft Objects in Cribs:
Toys, pillows, blankets, crib bumpers, and other soft objects are strictly prohibited in the sleep area to reduce the risk of suffocation.
Room Temperature Monitoring:
Caregivers will ensure that infants are not overheated while sleeping. Appropriate clothing (sleep sacks or light blankets) will be used, and caregivers will regularly monitor room temperature.
3.2 Monitoring Sleep Times
Infants will be checked at regular intervals during nap times to ensure they are sleeping safely and comfortably.
3.3 Avoiding Unsafe Sleep Environments
Infants should not sleep in strollers, swings, or car seats for extended periods while under care.
Staff must follow established safe sleep practices at all times, even during emergency situations.
4. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness
4.1 Understanding SIDS
Definition: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden, unexplained death of an otherwise healthy infant, typically occurring during sleep.
4.2 Risk Factors for SIDS
Placing infants to sleep on their stomachs or sides.
Use of soft bedding or the presence of loose items in the crib.
Overheating due to excessive clothing or blankets.
Exposure to smoke or secondhand smoke.
4.3 SIDS Prevention Strategies at Common Ground Childcare
Safe Sleep Practices:
Common Ground Childcare will follow strict safe sleep protocols, as outlined in section 3, to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Promote a Smoke-Free Environment:
Smoking is prohibited in or around Common Ground Childcare facilities, and caregivers are instructed to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke in their personal environments.
Regular Caregiver Training:
All staff members will undergo SIDS awareness training, emphasizing the importance of safe sleep practices and recognizing risk factors.
Breastfeeding Support:
Whenever appropriate, staff will support breastfeeding, which is associated with reduced SIDS risk.
5. Training and Education for Common Ground Childcare Staff
5.1 Mandatory Training
Staff Training:
All caregivers at Common Ground Childcare are required to complete training on SBS/AHT, SIDS, safe sleep practices, and coping strategies for crying infants. This training will be conducted upon hiring and refreshed annually.
Ongoing Education:
Educational materials and resources on SBS, SIDS, and safe sleep will be made readily available to staff and families. Staff will be encouraged to review updated guidelines regularly.
Parental Engagement:
Common Ground Childcare will offer educational resources to parents regarding safe sleep practices and SBS/AHT prevention to create consistency between home and childcare environments.
6. Incident Response and Reporting
6.1 Monitoring for Signs of Abuse
Staff will remain vigilant for any signs of potential SBS/AHT, such as unexplained bruising, lethargy, or vomiting. Any suspicion will be reported to the director immediately and followed by a formal report to the relevant authorities.
6.2 Emergency Procedures
In the event a child shows symptoms of head trauma or other medical emergencies, staff will call emergency services immediately and inform the child’s parents. Proper documentation and follow-up will be conducted.
7. Review and Updates
7.1 Annual Policy Review
Common Ground Childcare will review this policy annually and make necessary updates to ensure compliance with the latest research, childcare regulations, and safety standards. The annal review was last done on the date of this post. The last changes were made on September 6, 2024
By adhering to these procedures, Common Ground Childcare aims to provide a safe, supportive environment for all infants in its care, reducing the risk of SBS, SIDS, and other preventable injuries.
