SIDS

Question 1

What is sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?

Answer 1

Sudden unexplained death in an infant, also referred to as ‘cot death’. Usually occurs within the first 6 months of life.

Question 2

What are the risk factors for SIDS?

Answer 2

Prematurity, low birth weight, smoking during pregnancy and parental smoking, male baby (slight increased risk), putting the baby to sleep prone, bed sharing, hyperthermia (over wrapping) or head covering.

Question 3

How can the risk of SIDS be minimized?

Answer 3

• put the baby on their back when not directly supervised
• keep their head uncovered
• place their feet at the foot of the bed to prevent them sliding down and under the blanket
• keep the cot clear of toys and blankets
• maintain a comfortable room temp (16-20 degrees)
• avoid smoking and avoid handling the baby after smoking as smoke stays on clothes
• avoid co-sleeping esp on a sofa or chair
• if co-sleeping, avoid alcohol, drugs, smoking, sleeping tablets or deep sleepers

Question 4

What support is available for affected families?

Answer 4

• Lullaby trust
• Care of next infant team (CONI) - supports parents with their next infant after a sudden infant death. Provides extra support and home visit, resuscitation training and access to equipment eg. movement monitors that alarm is the baby stops breathing for a prolonged period