Pacifiers: an update on use and misuse.
OBJECTIVE
The use of pacifiers is a controversial topic; this article looks at the subject from both a historical and cultural perspective, with a review of current research.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of pacifiers in infants older than 1 month is currently recommended by multiple researchers to prevent sudden infant death syndrome, and is associated with other benefits for premature infants. However, pacifier use has also been associated with higher risk of otitis media.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge of the most recent evidence will enable providers to communicate appropriate guidelines on pacifier use to families.
Marter
Abigail
A
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA, USA.
Agruss
Janyce Cagan
JC
D001294:Attitude to Health / Q000208:ethnology; D034462:Dissent and Disputes; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007224:Infant Care / Q000379:methods / Q000523:psychology / Q000639:trends; D008512:Medicine in the Arts; D024802:Nurse's Role; D041361:Pacifiers / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000706:statistics & numerical data / Q000639:trends; D010151:Paintings; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education*; D010371:Pediatric Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors; D013398:Sudden Infant Death / Q000517:prevention & control