Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

Which condition ranks as the leading cause of death for children under 1 year old?

1. Short pregnancy

2. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

3. Accidental Injuries

4. Pregnancy complications

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

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is recognized as the leading cause of death for children under 1 year old. This tragic condition refers to the sudden, unexplained death of an infant, often during sleep, and typically occurs in babies between 1 month and 1 year of age. The exact causes of SIDS are still not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified, including sleeping on the stomach, exposure to smoke, and overheating. The risk of SIDS has prompted significant public health initiatives aimed at educating caregivers about safe sleep practices. These include recommendations to place infants on their backs to sleep, use a firm mattress, and keep soft bedding and toys out of the crib. Awareness of these guidelines has contributed to a decline in SIDS rates, yet it remains a leading concern in pediatric healthcare. In terms of other options, conditions such as short pregnancy, accidental injuries, and pregnancy complications do contribute to child mortality but do not rank as the leading cause of death for infants in this age group compared to the prevalence of SIDS. Understanding this ranking is crucial for healthcare providers, as it informs preventative strategies and educational campaigns aiming to reduce the incidence of SIDS significantly.