An evaluation of portable sleeping spaces for babies following the Christchurch earthquake of February 2011

Abstract

To describe how recipients of portable sleeping spaces (PSSs) for babies received and used these devices, offered as emergency baby beds in earthquake-ravaged Christchurch, New Zealand, 2011. The PSS package responded to increased risk to babies from disrupted living and sleeping conditions in families. 'Door-to-door' distribution offered easy access to those in need. A subgroup of recipients gave feedback via a survey. From 642 families who received PSSs between March and August, 139 were invited to complete a survey on usage and 100 (72%) responded. Risks identified were 'earthquake related' (82%), bed-sharing (41%), smoking in pregnancy (26%) and prematurity or low birthweight (11%). PSSs were used for same-bed co-sleeping by 87%. They were used even though most families (96%) also had a cot or bassinet. Features most appreciated were 'having baby close' (90%), 'peace of mind' (88%) and portability (74%). PSSs were acceptable to parents and used as instructed. Enabling physical protection of babies when same-bed co-sleeping, they gave peace of mind to parents. PSSs could be considered in ordinary times for protecting babies from sudden infant death.