Variations in Cause-of-Death Determination for Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths

CONCLUSIONS:
US medical examiners and coroners apply variable practices to classify and investigate SUID, and thus, they certify the same deaths differently. This variability influences surveillance and research, impacts true understanding of infant mortality causes, and inhibits our ability to accurately monitor and ultimately prevent future deaths. Findings may inform future strategies for promoting standardized practices for SUID classification.

Source: PEDIATRICS - June 30, 2017 Category: Pediatrics Authors: Shapiro-Mendoza, C. K., Parks, S. E., Brustrom, J., Andrew, T., Camperlengo, L., Fudenberg, J., Payn, B., Rhoda, D. Tags: Fetus/Newborn Infant, SIDS, Injury, Violence & Poison Prevention, Home Safety Article Source Type: research