In this poster it is stated that over a decade has passed since medical professionals and safety advocates recognized the unique transportation needs of premature infants. The smaller size of the preterm infant and risk of cardiorespiratory compromise in a semi-upright position have called for special consideration in the vehicle setting. In addition, the issue of appropriate child restraints for smaller premature infants must be considered. Questions arise as to whether or not restraints will provide adequate protection for infants who weigh less than 5 pounds. The Automotive Safety for Children Programme, Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University Medical School (USA), initiated a study of preterm infants weighing between three and four pounds in child restraints. Preliminary measurements indicated that: (1) a number of harness straps were too high above the infant's shoulders; and (2) that a number of chest retainer clips could not be positioned mid chest without contacting the infant's neck. Infants with low discharge weights may not be restrained safely in many current child restraint models that meet federal safety standards, and few options exist for appropriate positioning according to the manufacturers' guidelines. Continued research is needed to determine safe seat structure parameters for transporting infants who weigh less than five pounds, and new products must be developed to meet this need. (A)
Abstract