Which statement demonstrates understanding about swaddling a newborn?

• A. I should stop swaddling my baby once she is able to roll over by herself.
• B. I should continue swaddling until she shows signs of rolling over.
• C. Swaddling should be done only during daytime naps.
• D. I should never remove the swaddle for diaper changes.

Answer: (A)

Swaddling is useful for soothing a newborn, but safety guidelines require stopping it as soon as the baby starts to roll. When a baby can roll, a snug wrap can prevent movement and make it hard for the baby to free an arm or face, increasing the risk of suffocation or entrapment. The best approach is to discontinue swaddling once you notice signs of rolling and switch to a safer option, such as a sleep sack with hips and legs free or leaving the arms out while the baby sleeps on the back. Swaddling isn’t limited to daytime naps, and you should unwrap for diaper changes to allow for hygiene and quick access.