What does ALTE stand for?

In the context of pediatric health, ALTE stands for Apparent Life-threatening Event. This term describes a situation where an infant appears to experience a life-threatening event, such as apnea, color change, or unresponsiveness. The key aspect of ALTE is that it is an event that is perceived to be life-threatening by the observer, usually a caregiver.

This understanding is important in clinical practice, as it guides healthcare providers in evaluating infants who present with such episodes. Recognizing the distinction of ALTE helps inform ongoing monitoring and potential further investigation into underlying causes, ensuring that appropriate care and reassurance can be provided to families.

The other options describe scenarios that might seem plausible but do not accurately capture the established terminology used in pediatric care. Thus, understanding the definition and implications of ALTE is vital for anyone working in child health.