*AMYfromKY - SIDS answer :)*

high_hopes

As a NICU nurse I can answer your question!

We position premature (or sick term) babies on their abdomens because #1 they can breathe easier that way & #2, they digest the best in that position. The lungs are the last organ to fully develop in utero, so preemies have the most issues with breathing. Tummy positioning also helps with reflux, which is a HUGE issue in the preemie population! We also have every baby on a cardiac/respiratory monitor so we can respond as needed to drops in heartrate or long pauses in breathing.

Once a baby is transitioned to a crib, we no longer (at least in my NICU) position babies on their abdomens. The American Academy of Pediatrics only recommends back sleeping, NOT side sleeping for SIDS prevention (due to it being easier for a baby to roll on his/her tummy from the side).

We do extensive teaching with parents regarding why we position on abdomens early on, & NOT to do so at home.

In response to the other reply, it does help to position babies under phototherapy so all parts of their skin are exposed to the bilirubin lights.

Hope that helps clear things up....!

Starlette1983

Thanks for the good answer!  I was curious as well about that. 

high_hopes

Starlette1983:

Thanks for the good answer!  I was curious as well about that. 

Sure!!! I'm always open to NICU questions....although I don't wish that anyone's baby ends up there!

AMYfromKY

Thanks!! I was just so curious because it's the opposite of what we're told.  Of course, a preemie baby is not the same as a fullterm baby so that's why I figured there was a good reason for it.