Our Statement on the "Rock n' Play"
By: Dr. Joey Mechak (with support from all providers at Potomac Pediatrics); Photo credit: Fisher-Price Rock ‘n’ Play Sleeper PHOTO: AMAZON
Last week a report was released linking 32 infant deaths to the popular Fisher-Price Rock n’ Play. In response, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released the following statements:
“The American Academy of Pediatrics calls on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to issue an immediate recall for the Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play Sleeper, which has been tied to 32 sleep-related infant deaths, according to a new analysis by Consumer Reports… AAP urges parents to stop using the product immediately.”
“There is convincing evidence that the Rock ‘n Play inclined sleeper puts infants’ lives at risk, and CPSC must step up and take immediate action to remove it from stores and prevent further tragedies.”
Given this new evidence and these statements from the AAP, at this time, the providers at Potomac Pediatrics believe the Rock n’ Play is an unsafe place for an infant to sleep – day or night, regardless of age. We advise all of our patients to discontinue use of this product and adhere to the AAP’s safe sleep principles:
“AAP recommendations on creating a safe sleep environment include:
- Place the baby on his or her back on a firm sleep surface such as a crib or bassinet with a tight-fitting sheet.
- Avoid use of soft bedding, including crib bumpers, blankets, pillows and soft toys. The crib should be bare.
- Share a bedroom with parents, but not the same sleeping surface, preferably until the baby turns 1 but at least for the first six months. Room-sharing decreases the risk of SIDS by as much as 50 percent.
- Avoid baby’s exposure to smoke, alcohol and illicit drugs.”
We will continue to monitor the evidence as it emerges and communicate with you as necessary. If you have questions, concerns, or would like to discuss this issue further, please see the links below or call us at 301-279-6750.
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