What should a nurse teach parents about home safety precautions for newborns?

The recommendation regarding crib slats being no more than 2.25 inches apart is essential for ensuring the safety of a newborn. This specific measurement is important because it helps prevent the baby's head from getting trapped between the slats, which can pose a serious risk of suffocation or injury. Crib safety standards are designed to minimize hazards in the sleeping environment, and adequate spacing between slats is a key component.

In contrast, sleeping on a soft surface is not advisable, as it can increase the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Allowing toys in the crib can also create hazards, as they could pose a choking risk or increase the chance of the baby accidentally covering their face. While having the newborn in the same room as parents is recommended for the first few months to promote safety and bonding, stating they should be kept there at all times is not practical or necessary for home safety precautions.

Thus, focusing on the spacing of crib slats directly addresses a critical aspect of safety in the infant's immediate sleep environment.