Practice of Infant Safe Sleep Recommendations among Mothers: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study from Beirut, Lebanon

Abstract

Objective − To explore the practice of infant safe sleep recommendations as defined by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) by mothers in Beirut, Lebanon.

Materials and Methods − A total of 87 mothers participated in this study. Data was collected via
hard-copy questionnaires distributed at the daycares in Beirut between July 2018 and April 2019.

Results − Less than half of the mothers were more likely to place the infants on their back during sleep. Sixty-two percent of mothers reported that they would most likely place their infants on a firm mattress in the crib. Seventy percent of mothers reported that they are likely to have their infants sleep in the same room as them, and 43.7% of participants reported that they are unlikely to have their infants sleep in the same bed as them or with any other adult. Only 8% mentioned that they would never place a pillow in the crib. One-third of participants mentioned that they were more likely to offer a pacifier when putting their infants to sleep.

Conclusion − Mothers in Beirut, Lebanon require more awareness regarding safe sleep practices in order to improve compliance with the “Strict definition” of the AAP recommendations. Exploring the preventive advice currently given by health professionals to pregnant women and young parents, as well as assessing the prevalence of safe sleep practices in all Lebanese governorates, will help design and launch awareness campaigns adequately.