Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy

Question 1

What is sudden unexpected death in infancy? Tower hamlets

Answer 1

Unexpected and initially unexplained death of a previously well child under the age of 1. Highest risk during the first 4 months of life.

Question 2

How do you avoid sudden unexpected death in infancy?

Answer 2

1. Do not smoke in same room as baby
2. Avoid bed sharing or sleeping with baby on sofa
3. Consider breastfeeding
4. Offer baby dummy while they are falling asleep
5. Do not use pillows or duvet in a cot
6. Place baby to sleep on their back
7. Tuck blanket below shoulders or use a baby sleeping bag
8. Do not overheat the baby’s room

Question 3

What’s the management for sudden unexpected death in infancy?

Answer 3

1. Legal requirement for an autopsy
2. Bereavement counselling
3. Consider lactation suppression with cabergoline
4. Care of the next infant programme if planning another child
5. Apnoea monitor and resuscitation training for next child