BRUE (short for a "brief resolved unexplained event") is when a baby has a short, unexpected change in breathing, behavior, or appearance for unknown reasons. Most babies who have had a BRUE don't have one again. Your baby stayed in the hospital so the health care team could check them carefully and do tests. Here's how to care for your baby at home.

• Follow up with your baby's health care provider in 1 day.
• Always follow safe sleep rules:
  • Be sure your baby always sleeps on their back.
  • Put your baby in a crib or bassinet that meets all safety standards.
  • Keep the crib or bassinet in the room where you sleep for at least 6 months and, if possible, for your baby's first year. Never let your baby sleep in bed with you.
  • Don't put wedges, sleep positioners, pillows, blankets, bumpers, or toys in the crib or bassinet.
  • Don't let your baby sleep in bed with anyone. Don't fall asleep in bed or on a couch or chair while holding your baby.
  • Give your baby a pacifier at naptime and bedtime. If your baby is breastfeeding, wait until breastfeeding is going well, usually about 3–4 weeks.
  • Don't let your baby get too hot while sleeping.
  • If your baby falls asleep in a car seat, stroller, sling, or baby carrier, move them to the crib or bassinet as soon as possible.
  • Make sure all caregivers follow these safe sleep practices.

Other health reminders:

• Breastfeed your baby or give them pumped breast milk, if possible.
• Don't smoke or let anyone else smoke around your baby. If anyone in your household needs help quitting, go to smokefree.gov or call 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669).
• Be sure your baby gets all recommended vaccines (shots).
• Most parents feel safer if they know what to do in an emergency. Ask your health care provider about taking a CPR class.

You know your baby best. If you are worried about movements your baby has, skin color changes, or anything else, talk to your health care provider. Also, if you are worried that someone may be hurting your baby, call your health care provider right away.

Your baby has another BRUE event. If your baby isn't breathing, start CPR right away and have someone call 911.

What happens during a BRUE? A BRUE is when a baby has changes in breathing or skin color, becomes floppy or stiff, or is hard to wake up. After the short event, the baby quickly gets back to normal (in less than 1 minute). 

What causes a BRUE? The exact cause of BRUEs is not known. They happen more often in babies who were born early (preemies), are younger than 2 months old, have feeding problems, have a cold, or are around cigarette smoke.

Does a BRUE increase the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome)? No, having a BRUE doesn't make your baby more likely to have SIDS. But you should always follow safe sleep rules for your baby.