Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Question 1

What is suddden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?

Answer 1

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a sudden unexplained death in an infant. It is sometimes referred to as “cot death”. This usually occurs within the first six months of life.

Question 2

What are the risk factors for SIDS?

Answer 2

• Prematurity
• Low birth weight
• Smoking during pregnancy
• Male baby (only slightly increased risk)

Question 3

How can the risk of SIDS be minimised?

Answer 3

Measures to reduce the risk of SIDS include:

• 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 lots of toys and blankets
• Maintain a comfortable room temperature (16 – 20 ºC)
• Avoid smoking. Avoid handling the baby after smoking (smoke stays on clothes).
• Avoid co-sleeping, particularly on a sofa or chair
• If co-sleeping avoid alcohol, drugs, smoking, sleeping tablets or deep sleepers

Question 4

What support can be offered to parents who have lost a child to SIDS?

Answer 4

The lullaby trust is a great charity to help support families affected. Bereavement services and bereavement counselling should be available for affected families.

Question 5

Briefly describe the role of the CONI team

Answer 5

The Care of Next Infant (CONI) team supports parents with their next infant after a sudden infant death. This provides extra support and home visits, resuscitation training and access to equipment such as movement monitors that alarm if the baby stops breathing for a prolonged period.