Something as simple as a nap during daycare can become dangerous quickly if children are not in a safe sleep environment. The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates there are more than 3,500 sleep-related infant deaths in the United States every year. These injuries and deaths can be prevented, but only if caregivers are properly trained to follow state guidelines and safe sleep recommendations from experts.
How Do Sleep Injuries Happen in Texas Daycares?
Sleep injuries can happen when children are not put in safe sleep environments, especially infants. According to the AAP, the only safe position for infants to sleep in is on their backs on a flat, level surface. Caregivers should not be placing anything in the crib with the child, especially anything soft, like a blanket or a toy. Infants, especially those younger than four months, should not be allowed to routinely sleep on any inclined surface, including car seats, strollers, infant slings, and infant carriers.
States also have safe sleep protocols that caregivers must follow, and Texas is no exception. In order to provide a safe sleeping environment, daycares must provide an individual crib, cot, or bed for each child, depending on whether they are able to walk. The crib must be empty if the child is under one year old. A crib sheet is allowed, but it must be fitted and not easily dislodged.
What Kind of Sleep Injuries Can Happen in Texas Daycares?
There are several different injuries that can happen when babies are allowed to sleep without regard for safe sleep practices.
When babies are allowed to sleep on an inclined surface, not on their back, or in a crib with soft items, they are at a higher risk of suffocation. Some research indicates when babies sleep on their stomachs or abdomens, there is a higher chance of “rebreathing,” which happens when babies breathe in air they’ve already exhaled, eventually suffocating due to a lack of new oxygen. This is especially dangerous if the baby is sleeping on a soft mattress or with bedding, stuffed toys, or a pillow near their face.
Swaddling can also cause injuries during sleep, especially if the baby isn’t swaddled correctly. If a baby is swaddled too tightly, they can develop hip issues, including hip dysplasia over time. Proper swaddling should allow a baby’s hips to bend up and out.
There is some research that indicates swaddling may make it harder for babies to wake up on their own, which could put them at a higher risk of SIDS.
Additionally, babies being swaddled incorrectly can lead to suffocation, as the blanket or other swaddling tool can be wrapped too tightly around the child’s neck. Experts recommend parents and caregivers stop swaddling when the baby is showing signs of being able to roll over, as early as two months old.
What Steps You Can Take if Your Child Was Injured or Killed by Improper Sleep Practices in a Texas Daycare
Qualified caregivers should understand the risk of improper sleep practices. If they do not follow the guidelines of the state of Texas, as well as protocols set by experts, they may be responsible for your child’s injury or death. If something has happened to your child as a result of improper sleep practices, it’s important that you get help today. Reach out The Button Law Firm today to speak with a member of our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After an Incident?
In order to make a claim against a daycare, it must be done with the state’s statute of limitations, which means there is a certain time a lawsuit must be filed in. The laws regarding statute of limitations are specific to each state, and there can also be differences depending on the type of claim and who is pursuing it. For most negligence claims in Texas, the suit must be filed within two years of the incident. It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Why Should I Work with The Button Law Firm?
Daycare injuries and possible cases of neglect are complicated and require a lot of attention to detail. Your lawyer should be someone who has experience holding daycares and caregivers accountable for their actions. If our team takes on your case, it’s because we truly believe we can help you and your family move forward, and you can be confident your case will get the attention to detail it truly deserves.
Can I Read Reviews from Your Other Clients?
Yes! Click this link to read reviews from our clients.
How Can I Contact The Button Law Firm?
It’s very easy to get in touch with us. You can reach our team at 214-699-4409 or send us an email at [email protected]. You can also head to our website to fill out the contact form. While you’re there, you can download our guides to help with finding a safe daycare, as well as more information about what to do after a daycare injury.