Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS

Sudden death of an infant under one year.

Age Risk

Most cases occur under 6 months old.

SIDS Incidence

38 deaths per 100,000 live births.

Diagnosis of Exclusion

SIDS diagnosis requires ruling out other causes.

Importance of Autopsy

Identifies disorders mimicking SIDS symptoms.

Sepsis

Infection causing systemic inflammation in infants.

Asphyxiation

Lack of oxygen leading to infant death.

Anaphylaxis

Severe allergic reaction potentially causing death.

Metabolic Disturbances

Imbalances affecting bodily functions in infants.

Hyperthermia

Excessive body heat potentially leading to death.

Congenital Heart Disease

Heart defects present at birth affecting infants.

Pneumonia

Lung infection causing breathing difficulties.

SIDS Epidemiology

Leading cause of infant mortality in U.S.

Racial Disparity

Higher SIDS rates in Black and Native American infants.

Child Care Settings

15-20% of SIDS cases occur here.

AAP Recommendation

Supine sleep position reduces SIDS risk.

Maternal Risk Factors

Includes young age, smoking, and substance abuse.

Infant Risk Factors

Includes prematurity and soft sleeping surfaces.

Soft Bedding Risk

Increases SIDS risk 5-fold.

Prone Sleeping Risk

Combining prone position and soft bedding increases risk 21-fold.

Protective Factors

Includes breastfeeding and smoke-free environments.

Family Support

Emotional support is crucial during SIDS incidents.

Communication with Family

Be honest and avoid false hope during resuscitation.

Signs of Life Assessment

Check pulse, temperature, and chest movement.

Trauma Assessment

Look for signs of injury or abuse.