Which of the following actions should NOT be recommended for reducing SIDS risk?

The recommendation to avoid using a wedge for side-lying positions is based on evidence related to safe sleep practices for infants. Research has shown that placing a baby on their back to sleep significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The back position has been identified as the safest, while side-lying poses an increased risk because it can lead to the baby rolling onto their stomach, which is associated with a higher incidence of SIDS.

In addition, practices such as breast-feeding, maintaining a smoke-free environment, and placing the baby on their back to sleep are all strongly endorsed because they contribute positively to an infant’s health and safety during sleep. Breast-feeding can provide protective factors, maintaining a smoke-free environment minimizes the risk of exposure to harmful substances, and placing the baby on their back is the cornerstone of SIDS prevention, making these practices essential recommendations for parents and caregivers.