Taking preterm babies home safely

INDIANAPOLIS, April 29 (UPI) -- A U.S. group of pediatricians has issued updated guidelines for bringing preterm or low-weight babies home from the hospital.

The report of the American Academy of Pediatrics said rear-facing car safety seats are the transport method of choice for infants who can maintain cardio-respiratory stability when seated, car beds are appropriate for some infants with breathing difficulties, slow heart beats or blood levels low in oxygen when seated in a semi-reclining position.

"It is important to place car seats or car beds in the rear seat of the car to avoid the potential injury associated with air bags in small individuals," William A. Engle said in a statement.

An adult sitting in the rear seat of the vehicle next to the child also provides an additional measure of safety.

"The guidelines report updates in research and new resources available for ensuring the safest transportation possible for our most vulnerable babies," article co-author Dr. Marilyn Bull of Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis said in a statement. "Selection of the best seat for the infant, guidelines for positioning the baby and the assessment of the baby in the seat prior to discharge are emphasized."

The guidelines are published in the May issue of Pediatrics.