Developing a state-wide infrastructure for safe sleep promotion

ObjectivesSleep-related deaths are the third leading cause of infant death in Kansas. This manuscript describes implementation of an infrastructure of regional trainers to educate on the American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep recommendations.DesignProspective evaluation of training program on knowledge transfer.SettingInstructors were recruited from throughout the state of Kansas and trained to provide safe sleep education in their communities.ParticipantsInstructors were a mix of healthcare workers and community members. Their trainees encompassed both professionals and caregivers.InterventionInstructors attended a 2-day training, including completing 18-item pre and post-training knowledge tests, a training evaluation survey, and performing a portion of the structured safe sleep presentation and crib demonstration for feedback.MeasurementInstructors were evaluated before and after training. After conducting trainings in their region, instructors submitted trainees' pre and post-test results. Scores were compared using t-test.ResultsTwenty-three instructors were trained. Scores averaged 13.5 (SD = 2.4) for the pre-test and 15.3 (SD = 2.4) for the post-test. Those scoring <80% post-training (n = 6) received additional instruction. In the subsequent year, 13 trainers provided safe sleep education at 21 events to a total of 378 trainees. Trainee scores averaged 11.4 (SD = 2.7) on the pre-test and increased to 13.9 (SD = 2.5) on the post-test (P < .001). Findings were consistent when adjusting for variation between individual trainers.ConclusionsSafe sleep instructors can be trained to disseminate safe sleep guidelines; however, only half provided at least 1 training within 1 year. Future recommendations include over-recruiting potential instructors, incorporating trainings into existing positions or otherwise incentivizing trainers.