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