(HealthDay News) -- A premature baby may need extra care to make sure he or she fits properly in a car seat.
The Cleveland Clinic says:
- Preemies are safest in an infant carrier. Make sure the carrier's distance from the crotch to seat back is less than 5 1/2 inches. Roll up a small blanket or diaper and place it in the area between the crotch strap and baby to minimize slouching.
- There should be less than 10 inches between the seat bottom and lower harness straps to prevent straps from going across baby's ears.
- Buckle baby in before putting a blanket over him or her.
- Avoid a car seat with a shield, arm rest or abdominal pad.
- Keep baby in the back seat.
- If baby uses breathing equipment, place it on the floor of the car, not on the seat next to baby.