Safe Sleeping - Questions Flashcards
Explain what three things you will check when assessing the safety and suitability of the mattress.
It should be clean, firm, and flat. It also be snuggly fit in the cot.
What is the Australian Safety Standard for cots?
The cot height should be 600 mm, and the spacing between the bars should be 50 mm to 95 mm. The gap between the mattress and the cot should be no more than 20 mm (less than two fingers). The bars on a cot shouldn’t be horizontal, and the locking devices must work. You should look for the Australian and New Zealand Standards label on the cot.
Explain the procedures you will follow to ensure that clean linen is used.
You’ll check that the child has clean linen with them, preferably from home. If they’re from the service, they should be freshly laundered.
What is the suitable temperature and climate of the environment? What are some appropriate cooling, heating, and ventilation practices to consider?
The ideal temperature is between 18 and 22 degrees. Ensuring bed linen is suited to the temperature (cotton for warm days and a blanket in the cold) and the child is dressed according to the temperature. You may need to adjust the thermostat or the windows and blinds.
Looking at the first picture, can you explain ways to minimise the risk of SUDI in preparing the cot?
Remove the soft objects from the cot, like the toys and pillows; remove the extra layers to avoid overheating, but if a blanket is needed, make sure it’s properly secured; Remove the bottle from the cot, and the baby should have their feet at the bottom of the cot.
Looking at the second picture, what might you check around the cot for any hazards?
Look around for any strangulation hazards, like mobiles, cords, curtains, teething necklaces, gummy cords, or jewellery.
How will you monitor the baby’s safety while asleep?
Physically entering the room or having an educator stay within the area for constant supervision.
How often will you physically check on sleeping babies in the cot room?
Babies and toddlers should be checked every 10 minutes.
How will you check each child’s breathing and the colour of their skin?
Squat next to the cot and look through the bars to monitor the child’s chest rising and falling. With a small amount of light, you should be able to see the child’s skin and lips to ensure they are healthy-coloured.
