Abstract â–¡ 131

The term ALTE is used by clinicians to describe episodes in which an infant exhibits some unexplained and sudden change in behaviour, sufficient to make the parent or observer think that the child is dead or dying, or at risk of dying. While there has been relatively strong clinical interest in the diagnosis and treatment of these infants, the psychological impact of the event(s) upon associated health behaviours and family life, including the parental relationship, prospective children, child care practice in the family and the general implications for the medium and long term mental health of the children and parents, has been seriously neglected.

This study used a series of 3 focus groups in two hospitals in the UK. The groups comprised 14 relatives of the infants (parents, grandparents, and one much older sister) two clinicians, a health visitor and a psychologist (the latter two were also the investigators who were present as facilitators in all three the ALTEs, explore their perceptions of what is helpful in hospital practices, the level of support they thought they both needed and received and the event(s).

Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a thematic, interpretive approach. Three main themes were identified and will be presented - anxiety surrounding the event itself, the psychological implications of these experiences for the family members and communication with and confidence in health care staff.