Acceptability and feasibility of a safe infant sleep enabler for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families of high risk for sudden infant death: the Pēpi-pod Program

Aim This study trialled a culturally appropriate adaptation of the Pēpi-pod Program in Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to determine acceptability and feasibility within this population. Method: This study used an exploratory descriptive design to report parent experiences of the program. Maternity service providers referred potential participants identified as having one or more known risk factors for sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI). Parents who consented undertook three interlinked program components: 1) use of safe sleep enabler; 2) parent education; 3) family commitment to spread what they had learned about safe infant sleep. Data relating to the acceptability and use of the Pēpi-pod Sleep Space was collected at monthly intervals until baby was aged approximately 5-6 months. Results: Five eligible families (infant age ≤9 weeks) were recruited. Demographics included two single-parent families; all babies identified as Aboriginal; all families intended to bed share with two or more risk factors for SUDI present. The acceptability of the Pēpi-pod as a safe sleep space for babies was supported by parent responses that related to three themes: safety, convenience and portability. Conclusions: Parent responses highlighted that the Pēpi-pod Program was acceptable to families. Engagement with existing maternal and child health services demonstrated potential for long term support and sustainability, through developing local workforce skills, and supporting and building community capacity around strategies to reduce SUDI risk. Pilot results have informed a larger trial (n=300) within six communities across Queensland during 2014-2015