Changing table safety
Falling from changing tables is a common cause of injury in babies
and young children. When purchasing a changing table, look for the following
features:1
- The table is of sturdy construction, with a
railing on all sides that is
2 in. (5.1 cm)
high.
- The middle of the changing surface is slightly lower than the
sides.
- The safety belt is easy to fasten.
- An area for
changing supplies (wipes, diapers, creams) is within easy reach. You shouldn't
have to bend or take your eyes off your baby to access these items. However,
they should be out of reach of the child.
Take the following precautions to avoid a potentially serious
injury:
- Never leave your child unattended on a changing
table, not even for a second. Always keep your eyes and at least one hand on
your baby. A strap is not a substitute for your supervision.
- Keep
disposable diapers and powders out of children's reach. Pieces of plastic liner
can choke babies. Inhaled powder particles can injure their lungs.
References
Citations
American Academy of Pediatrics (2009). Keeping your child safe. In SP Shevlov et al., eds., Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5, 5th ed., pp. 457–506. New York: Bantam.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics |
| Last Revised | January 26, 2011 |