Sudden unexplained infant death
(SUID/SIDS)

Definition

Epidemiology

Rare

Aetiology

Risk
factors

Sleeping prone

Any infant death that is unexpected
and initially not explained

Metabolic
Overheating
Electrolyte disturbance

Developmental
Prematurity (incl premature diaphragm)

Immune/autoimmune
Airway inflammation

Degenerative
Brainstem gliosis

Trauma
Milk inhalation
NAI

Vascular
Long Q-T interval

Drugs
Passive smoking

Infection
Staph infection

Passive smoking

Peaks 1-4m

Winter

FH SIDS

Viral infection

Co-sleeping

Diagnosis

History

Management

Definitive

Initial ABCDE

Conservative
Information, advice, support (bereavement)
Document all findings, interventions, venepuncture
Confirmation of death
Refer to senior, safeguarding, police, GP
Refer to Coroner for autopsy (legal requirement)

Examination

General
Any obvious cause e.g. rash due to infection,
inflammation of the airway, trauma, retinal haemorrhages

FH
SIDS

SH
Living arrangements,
social support, siblings

DH
Meds, allergies

PMH
Growth and development
Illnesses and accident
Known medical conditions

POH
Any prematurity, birth complications,
previous children with SIDS

PC/HPC
How child found, how long alone,
any clues at beside, recently unwell

Prevention

Sleep on back

Avoid overheating with heavy blankets
and hot room temperature (aim 16-20 degrees)

Leave head uncovered when sleeping

Feet to foot position in cot

No passive smoking

Baby in childs bedroom until 6m

Avoid co-sleeping

Breastfeed if possible

Consult GP ASAP if baby is unwell