DCH names Safe Sleep Survey winner; hospital uses moment to educate and connect families with Perinatal Pathways

Daviess Community Hospital announced Vanessa Holcomb of Washington as the winner of its Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Survey giveaway. Holcomb received a Pack ’n Play portable play yard.

Hospital leaders said the survey responses will guide outreach and education delivered through Perinatal Pathways, DCH’s maternal–infant navigation program that provides confidential screenings, evidence-based education, referrals and barrier-reduction support for expectant and new families. Perinatal Pathways is partially funded by United Way of Daviess County.

“Thank you to everyone who shared their voice,” said Maci Briggeman, RN, Perinatal Navigator at DCH. “The survey helps us see what’s clear, what’s confusing and which resources would make safe sleep easier at home. Our message is simple: back to sleep, firm and flat, and a clear crib—every nap, every night.”

Why safe sleep matters
According to pediatric guidance, safer sleep for infants centers on simple, repeatable steps families can do at home:
  • Place baby on the back for every sleep.
  • Use a firm, flat, level sleep surface in a safety-approved crib, bassinet or play yard with a fitted sheet only.
  • Keep the sleep space clear of pillows, blankets, bumper pads, positioners and toys.
  • Room-share, don’t bed-share; return baby to their own sleep space after feeding or comforting.
  • Avoid couches and armchairs for sleep, which are high risk.
  • Dress baby for the room temperature to prevent overheating; consider a wearable blanket instead of loose bedding.
“These habits are practical and proven,” Briggeman said. “Our role is to turn guidance into real-life steps that work at 2 a.m., and to connect families with resources when cost, transportation or other barriers get in the way.”

About Perinatal Pathways
Perinatal Pathways pairs families with a nurse navigator for personalized support from pregnancy through postpartum, including: help obtaining early prenatal care; education on healthy pregnancy, infant care and safe sleep; navigation to community and social resources; coordination for high-risk pregnancies; and access to genetic education and appropriate testing. The program also partners with local organizations to deliver consistent messages across the community. Learn more or make a referral: http://www.dchosp.org/pathways 

Cutline: From left, United Way of Daviess County Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Zella Taylor, United Way of Daviess County Board Vice Chair Holly Horrall, winner Vanessa Holcomb of Washington, Daviess Community Hospital Perinatal Navigator Maci Briggeman, RN, and United Way of Daviess County Board Chair Carole Smith. 

About Daviess Community Hospital
Daviess Community Hospital (DCH) stands as a beacon of health and wellness in southwestern Indiana. Serving the region with one 48-bed hospital, seven specialty clinics, and seven outpatient clinics, DCH is dedicated to providing top-tier medical care. Nestled in Washington, Indiana, this not-for-profit health system is one of the area’s largest private employers, boasting a team of over 400 passionate professionals. DCH is unwavering in its mission to improving the health of the people of the communities it serves not only by delivering excellent medical care, but also ensuring accessibility, promoting healthy living, and collaborating with local agencies to address community health needs. DCH is committed to being the healthcare provider of choice, continuously striving for excellence and innovation. Discover more about DCH’s services and commitment to health at dchosp.org.