The unexpected, sudden death of a child under age 1 in which an autopsy does not show an explainable cause of death. SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME
Parts of Respiratory System Affected Entire respiratory system stops working due to infants sudden stop of breathing during sleep
Cause of Condition The cause of SIDS is unknown; however, many doctors now believe that SIDS is caused by several factors including: -Problems with the baby’s ability to wake up (sleep arousal) -Inability for the baby’s body to detect a build up of carbon dioxide in the blood
Therapy If baby is not moving or breathing, begin CPR and call 911
Prevention Always put baby to sleep on back Only put them to sleep in a crib Avoid soft bedding materials Make sure room temperature is not too hot Offer baby a pacifier when going to sleep Keep baby in a smoke-free environment
Recovery There has been no known cases of recovery from SIDS Autopsy results are not able to confirm a cause of death, but help add to existing knowledge about SIDS