International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What risk does leaving a baby alone during sleep pose?

1. Increases chance of colic

2. Violates safe sleep guidelines

3. Enhances independence of the baby

4. Safe sleep practice

The correct answer is: Violates safe sleep guidelines

Leaving a baby alone during sleep poses significant risks that relate to safe sleep guidelines. The primary concern is that infants are most vulnerable to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) when they are placed to sleep without supervision or in unsafe sleep environments. The guidelines emphasize the importance of placing infants to sleep on their backs on a firm sleep surface, free from soft bedding, toys, and other hazards. When a baby is left alone during sleep, the risk of these unsafe conditions increases, as there is no caregiver present to monitor the baby's position or surroundings. Additionally, the recommendation is to keep infants close to caregivers in a separate but proximate sleep space, such as a crib or bassinet, to ensure safety while still allowing for monitoring. Thus, adhering to safe sleep guidelines is crucial for reducing the risk of sleep-related incidents.