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An evaluation of portable sleeping spaces for babies following the C hristchurch earthquake of F ebruary 2011
Author(s) -
Cowan Stephanie,
Bennett Sharon,
Clarke Judith,
Pease Anna
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
journal of paediatrics and child health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.631
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1440-1754
pISSN - 1034-4810
DOI - 10.1111/jpc.12196
Subject(s) - medicine , pediatrics , medical emergency
Aim To describe how recipients of portable sleeping spaces ( PSS s) for babies received and used these devices, offered as emergency baby beds in earthquake‐ravaged C hristchurch, N ew Z ealand, 2011. Method The PSS package responded to increased risk to babies from disrupted living and sleeping conditions in families. ‘Door‐to‐door’ distribution offered easy access to those in need. A subgroup of recipients gave feedback via a survey. Results From 642 families who received PSS s between M arch and A ugust, 139 were invited to complete a survey on usage and 100 (72%) responded. Risks identified were ‘earthquake related’ (82%), bed‐sharing (41%), smoking in pregnancy (26%) and prematurity or low birthweight (11%). PSSs were used for same‐bed co‐sleeping by 87%. They were used even though most families (96%) also had a cot or bassinet. Features most appreciated were ‘having baby close’ (90%), ‘peace of mind’ (88%) and portability (74%). Conclusion PSS s were acceptable to parents and used as instructed. Enabling physical protection of babies when same‐bed co‐sleeping, they gave peace of mind to parents. PSS s could be considered in ordinary times for protecting babies from sudden infant death.