Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

Which condition is a common cause of cardiopulmonary arrest in young infants?

1. Respiratory syncytial virus

2. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

3. Severe dehydration

4. Pneumonia

The correct answer is: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is identified as a common cause of cardiopulmonary arrest in young infants due to its nature of occurring unexpectedly during sleep and leading to the cessation of breathing. SIDS typically happens in infants under one year of age during sleep, without any obvious signs of struggle or distress leading up to the event. This phenomenon is characterized by the sudden and unexplained death of an otherwise healthy infant, often seemingly related to disturbances in breathing patterns. In the context of cardiopulmonary arrest, SIDS is particularly concerning because it represents a situation where respiratory function can abruptly halt, leading to a lack of oxygen and possible cardiac arrest. This makes it crucial for caregivers to be aware of safe sleep practices, such as placing infants on their backs for sleep, ensuring a firm sleep surface, and avoiding overheating, to help reduce the risk of SIDS. While other conditions such as respiratory syncytial virus, severe dehydration, and pneumonia can also lead to serious respiratory issues or a state of decompensation in infants, they do not typically cause sudden, unexplained cessation of function as seen in cases of SIDS. Understanding SIDS highlights the importance of preventive measures in infant care to mitigate risks associated with this condition.