Sheepskin

[Guest jridky]

We are having a discussion about the benefits (or lack thereof) of using sheepskin in the isolette for infants in the NICU. I have done a literature search and cannot find much. The AAP does not recommend sheepskin as it teaches the parents it is okay to put something soft and fluffy under their infants. The fear is that this practice will be continued at home and be a contributing factor in SIDS.

Is anyone aware of any studies which look at the risk/benefits of sheepskin? I believe I remember reading one many years ago stating that it was of no benefit to the infants. A recent study published in Advances in Neonatal Care looked at sleeping surfaces, gel pillows, etc but did not address sheepskin.

Thank you for any references you may suggest.