Effects of age and sleeping position on arousal from sleep in preterm infants

Abstract

Study objectives: Preterm infants are at increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). We investigated whether the prone sleeping position impaired arousal from sleep in healthy preterm infants and whether this impairment was related to cardiorespiratory variables, temperature or postnatal age. Design: Longitudinal Setting/Participants: 14 healthy preterm infants (mean 32±0.4 weeks) were studied using daytime polysomnography on 4 occasions: 36-38 weeks postconception age, 2 to 3 weeks postterm, 2 to 3 months postterm, and 5 to 6 months postterm. Interventions: N/A Measurements: Multiple measurements of arousal threshold (cm H2O) in response to air-jet stimulation applied alternately..