Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/ask-dr.-sue-readers-respond-to-diaper-recommendations/5008761/
In a recent column of Exchange (March/April 1992), I discussed the rationale for choosing types of diapers for use in a child care setting. Thoughtful responses sent to me by readers suggest many questions remain. The central principles are:_ Diapers must contain urine and stool and minimize fecal contamination of people and surfaces.
_ Diapers should be changed frequently, no matter what type of diaper is used. Frequent changing prevents injury to skin in the diaper area. Diapers should absorb moisture and keep the skin dry, but these functions do not substitute for frequent changing.
_ Careful hand washing and surface sanitation must be practiced in conjunction with toileting and diapering activities.
Disease is spread by contamination of the environment as well as by person-to-person contact. The most up-to-date recommendations on the type of diaper to use to prevent environmental contamination are in the standards recommended by the American Public Health Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics in Caring for Our Children, the national standards, published in March 1992:
Diapers worn by children shall be able to contain urine and stool and minimize fecal contamination of the children, caregivers, environmental surfaces, and objects of the child care setting. ...