Safe to Sleep Project Update
In March, TIPQC launched a new Infant Project centering around Safe Sleep. After reviewing the number of deaths in Tennessee related to unsafe sleep practices, TIPQC felt that a state project could improve these numbers. The project is being led by Dr. Courtney Gutman, a neonatologist from University of Tennessee Medical Center, Knoxville. We currently have 13 teams (2 additional teams are in the process of joining) from across the state participating in this project. These teams are providing service in facilities providing care in Level I, II, III, and IV NICUs and the newborn nursery. Teams are completing a monthly audit where they examine a minimum of 10 babies in their care to see if safe sleep practices are in place – this includes babies in the newborn nursery, in the NICU, and even babies in their rooms with their families. This tool also allows teams to track what areas they need to work on in their own facilities. Stay tuned for our progress!