What is the recommended sleep position for healthy infants to reduce SIDS risk?

• A. Prone position tilted to one side.
• B. Lying on the side with head elevated.
• C. Stomach sleeping with pillow.
• D. Supine (on the back) for every sleep; firm, flat sleep surface; no soft bedding.

Answer: (D)

Safe sleep starts with placing infants on their back for every sleep, on a firm, flat sleep surface with no soft bedding or toys. This position keeps the airway open and reduces the chance of rebreathing exhaled air or airway obstruction that can occur with stomach sleeping or excess soft items nearby. A firm, flat surface supports easier breathing than a soft mattress or pillows that can shift and cover the face. Avoiding soft bedding, pillows, bumpers, and stuffed animals lowers the risk of suffocation or entrapment. If a baby can roll over on their own, you should still start them on their back for sleep and let them find their own position as they grow. The key takeaway is back to sleep for every nap and nighttime sleep on a firm, flat surface with no soft items.