Background:
The U.S. infant mortality rate was 5.9 deaths per 1,000 live infant births, which placed the U.S. at No. 33 out of 36 countries with the world’s largest economy in 2018. The U.S. State of Georgia’s IMR in 2018 was 7.6 deaths per 1,000 live infant births, which placed Georgia at No.45 out of 50 states. In 2017, the top ten leading causes of infant death were responsible for 67.8% of all infant deaths in the U.S. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and death from unintentional injuries were in third and fourth place. The purpose of the current study was to explore the knowledge, perceptions, and confidence of mothers about infant care to reduce the risk of SUID.

Methods:
Between Dec 2021 to March 2022 Via an online, targeted survey, study participants were recruited using purposeful sampling. Participants were first time mothers with infants under 1 years of age. The data was reported on 3 levels of the Socio-Ecological model, and participants’ recommendations to assist in developing a holistic approach to infant care.

Results:
Most mothers did not feel confident carrying for their infants upon release from the hospital, but the confidence level increased over time. They were knowledgeable about SUID prevention but felt this emotional journey and feeling of loneliness could affect their parental abilities. Participants expressed a need for emotional and physical support and perceived medical providers as the main source of reliable information.

Conclusion:
Current findings demonstrated interconnectivity between all levels of the Socio-Ecological model. Results suggested that the provided medical services are compartmentalized. To reduce the risk of SUID, healthcare system and communities should provide more emotional, social, and physical support to first-time mothers; a more integrated approach to care before and after birth; and easy access to services at all stages of the process.