An apparatus and method for preventing asphyxiation of an infant due to breathing of exhaled carbon dioxide. A mattress (10) with optional mattress pad provides an even air flow that removes exhaled carbon dioxide that accumulates at or near the surface (20) of the mattress or mattress pad. The infant may be located anywhere on the surface (20) of the mattress or mattress pad as the even air flow disperses carbon dioxide across the entire surface. In a preferred embodiment, the even air flow (60) is accomplished by forcing air into a cavity, or plenum chamber, in the body of the mattress which air distributes equally to air flow (60) holes on...