Sudden infant death syndrome SIDS

Vulnerable Infant

An underlying defect or brain abnormality makes the baby vulnerable.

Most cases of SIDS occurs between ages

2-4 months of age

continued risk factors is SIDS

Babies who are formula fed Sleep in an adult bed with parents, other children, or pets; this situation is especially dangerous if: The adult smokes, has recently had alcohol, or is tired. The baby is covered by a blanket or quilt. The baby sleeps with more than one bed-sharer. The baby is younger than 11 to 14 weeks of age.

Patient education to reduce SIDS

Education is the most effective tool we can provide our patients in preventing SIDS Parents are more likely to place baby on back to sleep if suggested by provider or nurse Participate in continuing education to stay abreast of changes Encourage pacifiers at 1 month of age to prevent breastfeeding disruption (no sooner), do not reinsert, do not coat is sweet substances, do not force on baby Protect pregnant women from smoke Assess cultural differences Ask who is caring for baby at home...is there smoking at home....where will baby sleep....

Babies are at higher risk for SIDS if they:

Sleep on their stomachs Sleep on soft surfaces, such as an adult mattress, couch, or chair or under soft coverings Sleep on or under soft or loose bedding Get too hot during sleep Are exposed to cigarette smoke in the womb or in their environment, such as at home, in the car, in the bedroom, or other areas

The Triple RisK Model

Vulnerable Infant Critical developmental period Outside stressor(s)

SIDS

is the leading cause of death among babies between 1 month and 1 year of age

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

is the unexpected, sudden death of an infant under one year of age that remains unexplained even after an autopsy and thorough medical investigation.

Critical developmental period

• During the infant's first 6 months of life, rapid growth and changes in homeostatic controls occur. These changes may be evident (e.g., sleeping and waking patterns) or they may be subtle (e.g., variations in breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature). Some of these changes may destabilize the infant's internal systems temporarily or periodically.

Outside stressor(s)

Most babies encounter and can survive environmental stressors, such as a stomach sleep position, overheating, secondhand tobacco smoke, or an upper infection. However, an already vulnerable infant may not be able to overcome them.

The nurse's role in SIDS

Nursing Care Includes: Assessment of risk factors for SIDS Providing education to parents of newborns and infants regarding safe sleep and other measures to reduce SIDS, Providing support to the family who has lost an infant due to SIDS Be familiar with area resources so that appropriate referrals can be made