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Positional asphyxia in individuals with severe cerebral palsy
T Brogan1, C L Fligner, J F McLaughlin
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Positional asphyxia caused the accidental deaths of three individuals with cerebral palsy. This highlights the risks for disabled individuals with limited motor skills, similar to young children.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Public health
- Disability studies
Background:
- Positional asphyxia is a risk factor for accidental death.
- Individuals with cerebral palsy have limited motor skills.
Observation:
- Three deaths from positional asphyxia occurred in individuals with cerebral palsy.
- These deaths happened after the individuals were placed in bed.
- 12% of positional asphyxia deaths in King County, WA (1984-1989) involved individuals with cerebral palsy.
Findings:
- Accidents in individuals with cerebral palsy resemble those in healthy young children.
- Limited motor skills may be a contributing factor for both groups.
Implications:
- Further research is needed to understand risks for disabled individuals.
- Potential for modifications in bed design to prevent such accidents.