NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Titans visited new families at Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital this week in support of Saint Thomas Health's efforts to promote safe sleep to new parents during National Baby Safety Month in September. OLB Josh Carraway, QB Tyler Ferguson, G Corey Levin, RB Khalfani Muhammad and WR Taywan Taylor visited patients and welcomed new babies to their families.

September is National Baby Safety Month and Saint Thomas Rutherford has been educating their patients and staff members on infant safe sleep for some time. They ensure their staff knows exactly how to educate patients when they go home – that the baby sleeps on their back, alone in the crib. In the state of Tennessee, there are multiple unwarranted deaths for inefficient safe sleep practices and they want to make sure that everyone is equipped with the education they need to provide the safety for a new baby.

"Here at Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, infant safety is our top focus," said Angelique Dooley, RNC, nurse manager. "We make it a priority to educate new moms and dads from the time they arrive at the hospital until they are discharged home, including a birthday party in which we actively discuss safe sleep practices, as well as other safety concerns. We are so excited to partner with the Tennessee Titans to bring awareness to our community on safe sleep practices."

More than 4,500 infant deaths occur each year due to numerous factors, including accidental suffocation due to unsafe sleep environments. An unsafe environment could include loose crib blankets, stuffed animals, or any object that could potentially cover the mouth or nose. Swaddling infants in a blanket is an age-old practice that can comfort a fussy baby. However, incorrect swaddling can pose a health threat. A blanket that is too loose can unwind and hinder breathing; one that is too tight can cause hip problems. Remember the ABC's of safe sleep -- Infants should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib.

"It was fun to see the families and the smiles on their faces when we walked in the door." Ferguson said.

Saint Thomas Health delivers approximately 10,000 newborns each year and educates new parents about safe sleep practices for babies. Their mission is focused on improving the overall health in communities.

For more information, visit the Saint Thomas website at www.sths.com or call (615) 284-BABY.

ABOUT SAINT THOMAS HEALTH

In Tennessee, Ascension's Saint Thomas Health operates nine hospitals in addition to a comprehensive network of affiliated joint ventures, medical practices, clinics and rehabilitation facilities that cover a 68-county area and employ more than 8,000 associates. Across the state, Saint Thomas Health provided more than $78 million in community benefit and care of persons living in poverty in fiscal year 2016. Serving Tennessee for 15 years, Ascension is a faith-based healthcare organization committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable. Ascension is the largest non-profit health system in the U.S. and the world's largest Catholic health system, operating 2,500 sites of care – including 141 hospitals and more than 30 senior living facilities – in 24 states and the District of Columbia. Visit www.sthealth.com.