SMS Your Baby

In the confusion and panic of a medical emergency, doctors will often use ‘acronyms’ to guide them in the treatment protocol. For instance, A.B.C. refers to Airway. Breathing .Circulation. We need to initially attend to the airway, then focus on breathing, and thirdly circulation. It’s called ‘the ABC of effective resuscitation’.

Similarly, the acronym SMS can be used in the management of your crying infant (under 6 months), assuming they are warm, well fed and clean.

The first S stands for Swaddle…wrap the baby up tightly like in a snug cocoon (reminiscent of the womb).
The M stands for Movement…for instance, rhythmic patting on back, rocking, pram or car ride.
The other S stands for Sounds…babies like low pitched, continuous, constant sounds such as those from a vacuum cleaner, washing machine or an untuned radio.

Applying all 3 measures simultaneously is even more effective.

How and why does SMS YOUR BABY work? I believe it calms difficult babies as they are quickly reminded of the tight, noisy womb environment, in addition to being ‘on the move’ for most of the day.

_Dr Harry Zehnwirth MB BS (Hons) FRACP is a consultant paediatrician with more than 25 years of specialised medical education and experience. He has observed and cared for hundreds of babies with irritability and sleep difficulties.

For more information about Dr Harry visit www.okidokiebaby.com_