Relationship between the position adopted by the baby during sleep and the prevention of sudden infant death

Abstract

Introduction: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a term used to describe the sudden and unexpected death of a baby under 1 year of age, where the definitive cause of death cannot truly be established, even after thorough investigation . Supine is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) as part of a safe sleep routine for babies. However, the prone position (or prone position) is contraindicated, which is related to a higher mortality rate. Method: The search for references was carried out using the Virtual Health Library (VHL) and Scielo platform. The following descriptors were used: "Supine Decubitus" AND "Sudden Infant Death". The filters were applied: full text article; main subject "Sudden Infant Death"; language in Portuguese, English and Spanish and publications in the last 5 years (2018-2023). In this way, there were a total of 35 results, of which only 11 articles were selected. Results and Discussion: There are several modifiable factors related to sudden infant death, including: caregivers of children who consume alcohol, tobacco and other drugs at home during the prenatal and postnatal periods; bed shared between babies and parents; overheating; presence of soft objects in the crib and loose bedding. Other important guidelines, which have level A evidence, for the prevention of SIDS are: exclusive breastfeeding; avoid exposure to cigarettes during and after pregnancy, as well as marijuana, opioids, alcohol and illicit drugs; carry out adequate prenatal care and correct immunization recommended for the child and do not use home cardiorespiratory monitors. Outside of sleep, dissemination and education regarding safe infant sleep guidelines from the beginning of pregnancy is recommended, given that 40% of mothers say they did not receive such guidelines and 25% receive information that differs from that advised by the AAP. Conclusion: It is concluded that Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is related to the prone position. In the USA, there are ethnic-racial disparities in SIDS mortality rates, associated with socioeconomic factors and lack of resources. It is crucial that public health services promote safe forms of sleep, such as the supine position, adequate feeding before sleep and the use of flat surfaces without objects in the crib.