What do Carers Undertake to Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?

Date of submission: 17-12-2017 | Date of acceptance: 21-05-2018 | Published: 06-11-2018

Abstract

Introduction: Sudden infant death syndrome is a major cause of post-neonatal death in several countries. The aim of our study was to evaluate the carers knowledge and compliance regarding international recommendations for the prevention of sudden infant death syndrome.

Methods: Observational, transversal and analytical study through the analysis of anonymous survey applied to pregnant women and carers of children followed in a Family Health Unit.

Results: Of 163 eligible carers, 60 were included in the study. The mother filled out the survey in 51 (85%) cases. Sixteen (27%) carers had no previous knowledge on this matter, one (2%) disclosed smoking in the baby household or room and 41 (68%) placed the baby to sleep in supine position. Families with mothers over 30 years old (p = 0.043), with employed parents (p = 0.026) or with undergraduate diploma (father p = 0.016, mother p = 0.006) placed the baby to sleep in supine position. When the mother was unemployed, she more frequently shared the bed with the baby (p = 0.047).
Overheating was a concern when the parents had better education (father p = 0.021, mother p = 0.031).

Discussion: Younger parents, unemployed or with lower educational status did not follow the recommendations for the prevention of sudden infant death syndrome.
Efforts should be done in order to raise awareness on sudden infant death syndrome.