Crib bumpers are a beautiful item of decor, seemingly essential to any nursery. However, research indicates that crib bumpers often do not protect babies and have been attributed to many infant deaths and injury. It is vital that parents and caregivers become aware of the dangers associated with crib bumpers.
Significance
While crib bumpers were initially created to prevent injury, modern crib regulations prove the benefits minimal. Crib bumpers have become an item of fashion and few realize that they can be deadly. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, "pediatric researchers from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis reviewed three U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission databases for deaths related to crib bumpers and crib-related injuries from 1985 to 2005." The study has prompted the AAP to conclude that "the risk of death or injury from using them outweighs their benefits."
Suffocation and SIDS Risk
In the study examining 27 infant deaths believed to be associated with crib bumpers, 11 were caused by the infant's face being found against the bumper. The death was "judged or could be assumed to be caused by asphyxia possibly resulting from re-breathing expired air," a known risk of sudden infant death syndrome. The study also found "nasal and oral compression" to contribute to the deaths.
Entrapment
The study determined 13 of the 27 deaths to have occurred when the child's head was wedged between the crib bumper and another object. As in the case of suffocation, immature motor skills prevented babies from freeing themselves once entrapped. Bumper manufacturers advise securing crib bumpers in a manner to ensure no gap between bumper and mattress. However, an independent study by Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis "found an open space between the bumper and the crib mattress in all the bumper pads...examined."
Strangulation
Babies may choke or become strangled by the ties that secure the bumper to the crib. Despite recommendations to commercial manufacturers indicating that ties and ribbons should not exceed 9 inches, the study found crib bumper ties in stores that did. "The Journal of Pediatrics" states that "all retail bumpers (have) hazardous properties" and "conclude that they should not be used."
Injury
Crib bumpers are also credited with injury to babies. In an effort to free limbs trapped between bumper and bedding, some cases have revealed bruises and broken bones. Parents are also cautioned to remove crib bumpers once the child is able to stand, as bumpers have been used as a step, increasing the danger for falls. As with all children's products, thorough product research and inspection is necessary to ensure the safety of your child.
References
- Sudden Infant Death Services of Illinois: "The Journal of Pediatrics"; Deaths and Injuries Attributed to Infant Crib Bumper Pads; B. T. Thach, et al.; September 2007 (pdf)
- "The Journal of Pediatrics"; Deaths and Injuries Attributed to Infant Crib Bumper Pads; B. T. Thach, et al.; September 2007
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Ask the Pediatrician
