Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA CHILDREN'S & WOMEN'S HOSPITAL - Mobile, Alabama
K.I.S.S. (Kohl’s Infant Safe Sleep)  

What is it?  
A grant from Kohl’s Department Stores is helping the University of South Alabama Children’s & Women’s Hospital increase awareness of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and how to minimize the risks throughout the Mobile community. The project aims to educate infant caregivers and the general public about the risk of SIDS and how safe sleep practices can reduce the number of infant deaths. Registered nurses from the Mother/Baby Unit at the hospital conduct discussions on the topic to groups throughout the community and distribute brochures, magnets, and posters highlighting safe sleep practices.  Awareness announcements have been placed on radio stations and in the daily newspaper targeting the high-risk population. 

Who is it for?  
All infant caregivers in the Mobile community, from babysitters to new and prospective parents, grandparents, day care workers, health care workers, and anyone charged with the care of infants.  

Why do they do it? 
To reduce the number of infant deaths, and to educate the public about the risk of SIDS and how safe sleep practices – such as placing infants on their back to sleep, eliminating exposure to smoke, keeping cribs clear of toys and other items, not allowing babies to sleep with other children or pets – may minimize the risk of SIDS.         

Impact:
Registered nurses from the hospital’s Mother/Baby Unit speak to approximately 46 groups annually at churches, community organizations, day care centers, and other locations. 

Contact:  
Glenda Rhodus
Acting Manager, Mother/Baby Unit,
Telephone:   251-415-8640
E-mail:  rhodus@usouthal.edu