Health Tip: Change Diapers Safely

Suggestions for using a changing table

Related Encyclopedia • Acne • Alagille Syndrome • Appendicitis • Asthma in Children More... Related Animations • Dental Cavities More... Related Healthscout Videos Concussions and Kids: Double Impact Fighting Childhood Obesity: New Method, New Results Reconstructing ACL's in Kids Saving Derek from Paralysis More... Related Drug Information • Adderal XR • Concerta • Strattera More... Related News Articles • Health Tip: Turn Baby's Head to Prevent Flat Spots • Early Surgery Boosts Outcomes for Babies With Cleft Palate • Low Vitamin D Levels Tied to Obesity in Kids • You're Not Doing Your Teen Any Favors by Letting Them Drink More...

(HealthDay News) -- A changing table makes dressing and changing baby easier, but it can lead to injury if used improperly.

Text Continues Below

---

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these changing-table safety tips:

• Make sure the table is sturdy and has a 2-inch guard rail that completely surrounds the table.
• Ensure that the table top is concave, with the sides slightly raised above the middle.
• Always buckle your baby in with the safety strap, but don't trust it to fully protect the child.
• Always stay with baby when the infant is on the changing table.
• Keep a supply of diapers, wipes, baby powder and other accessories close by, so you don't have leave the table to get them.
• Don't let baby hold or play with baby powder or disposable diapers.

-- Diana Kohnle