MercyOne North Iowa provides education on infant sleep safety that can save your baby's life

When it comes to protecting a baby during sleep, experts say it can be as simple as remembering the ABCs of Safe Sleep. These practices can greatly reduce the risk of sleep-related infant death.

A - Alone
B - on their Back
C - in a Crib

To help educate parents and caregivers about these simple life-saving practices, MercyOne North Iowa Birth Center is inviting local media to attend a demonstration led by Hiedi Stoltenberg, MD, Pediatric Hospitalist.

In May 2026, MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center celebrated their recertification as a Safe Sleep Silver Hospital through the Cribs for Kids® National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program. The certification recognizes hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to safe sleep education, staff training and modeling safe sleep practices for families before they bring their newborns home.

"Creating a safe sleep environment is one of the most important steps parents and caregivers can take to protect their baby," said Stoltenberg. "We recommend placing infants on their backs to sleep, in their own crib, on a firm, flat surface with no blankets, pillows, toys or other loose items. These simple practices significantly reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths and help ensure babies have the safest possible start in life."

During the demonstration, the provider will discuss:

• The ABCs of safe sleep
• How to properly set up a crib or bassinet

Media Notes:

Visual Opportunities: Safe sleep crib setup, infant sleep demonstration, provider interviews

Please contact [email protected] or call 515-341-6885 to schedule an interview with Dr. Stoltenberg.

NOTE: Media representatives must be accompanied by a MercyOne Public Relations/Communications representative at all times while on MercyOne property.