Health Tip: Giving Baby a Pacifier: MedlinePlus

Health Tip: Giving Baby a Pacifier: MedlinePlus

 

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Health Tip: Giving Baby a Pacifier

Make sure it doesn't pose a choking risk

By Diana Kohnle

Monday, July 29, 2013

Related MedlinePlus Page

• Infant and Newborn Care

(HealthDay News) -- Pacifiers may do a great job of soothing cranky little ones, but parents should take steps to make sure their toddlers are safe.
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these safety guidelines for pacifiers:

• Never offer the nipple of a bottle (even if connected to the ring) as a pacifier, as it may pose a choking hazard.


• Choose a pacifier that is molded together and does not have pieces that may split apart.


• The shield on the pacifier should be at least 1.5 inches in diameter so baby cannot put the entire pacifier in the mouth. The shield also should have ventilation holes.


• Never tie a pacifier to your child or the crib.


• Inspect a pacifier regularly and discard it immediately if discolored or torn.


• Make sure you offer a pacifier that is appropriate for your child's age, as recommended by the manufacturer.

HealthDay

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