Abstract
10 of our infants died suddenly & unexpectedly at home over a 2 yr period in spite of the availability of a cardiorespiratory monitor (M). Reasons for monitoring were: apparent life-threatening events (ALTE) (3), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) (3), siblings of SIDS victims (2), prematurity with other risk factors (2). Death was associated with non-use of monitors in 5 instances & questionable use in 3. However, 2 infants did die despite proper monitoring technique & family knowledge of CPR. Autopsies were done in 9/10; all were classified as SIDS. The proportion of both ALTE & BPD infants was greater (P<.05, one tail) than in a control group of all 211 new patients started/continued on M over a 6m period. These controls did not die suddenly & unexpectedly up to >1 yr of age. The table displays demographics of the 2 groups.
The demographics of the D are similar to those of SIDS victims in general, but in an exaggerated sense. For example, males generally constitute 60% of SIDS victims, whereas they constitute 80% of these D. These characteristics and the diagnoses ALTE & BPD define infants at increased risk for death with M available. We hypothesize that initial emphasis on the necessity of rigorous M use and frequent follow-up may increase compliance. This might also be aided by better monitors with fewer false alarms.
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Meny, R., Gutberlet, R. & Schwartz, E. INFANT DEATH & HOME MONITORS: COMPLIANCE AND DEMOGRAPHICS. Pediatr Res 21 (Suppl 4), 259 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198704010-00550
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198704010-00550