Clinical profile and predictors of mortality among the referred neonates at a tertiary care centre in north India: a prospective observational study.
Jasbir SinghPoonam DalalGeeta GathwalaPublished in: Tropical doctor (2020)
The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) shows encouraging improvement in infant and under-five mortality rates in India. However, the neonatal mortality rate (NMR) still remains high as India contributes to about one-fifth of global deaths. This prospective study was conducted from 15 January to 30 April 2016 to examine the clinical profile and predictors of mortality among referred neonates at our centre. Among 301 neonates, prematurity (40%) was the most common indication for referral followed by need for ventilation (38%) and birth asphyxia (28%). Approximately 73% neonates were referred within 24 h of birth. Ninety (29.9%) neonates died; of these, 63% died within 24 h of presentation. Prematurity, birth asphyxia, hypothermia, shock at presentation and extreme low birth weight were the most significant predictors of mortality. Adequate training of peripheral health personnel, dedicated teams for neonatal referral and strengthening of peripheral sick newborn care units (SNCUs) seem to be promising interventions for favourable outcome.
Keyphrases
- low birth weight
- preterm infants
- human milk
- preterm birth
- cardiovascular events
- tertiary care
- healthcare
- risk factors
- gestational age
- public health
- physical activity
- magnetic resonance
- palliative care
- high resolution
- mental health
- pain management
- case report
- climate change
- brain injury
- chemotherapy induced
- acute respiratory distress syndrome
- respiratory failure