Authors : Dr. Lakshmi Rachakonda; Dr. Harshita Guruprasad; Dr. Savita Kadam

Volume/Issue : Volume 7 - 2022, Issue 1 - January

Google Scholar : http://bitly.ws/gu88

Scribd : https://bit.ly/3qJdhkk

DOI : https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5878982

Abstract : Neonatal morbidity and mortality globally contribute to a major health burden, and also leads to rising economic burden. Factors leading to neonatal morbidity and subsequent NICU admissions, can be maternal or neonatal. Many of these factors are predictable in a given healthcare setting, and their prevention helps in improvement of neonatal healthcare. Method A total of 544 babies requiring NICU admissions, out of 4130 deliveries conducted at our institute, were analysed during a study period of 2 years (October 2018- October 2020). Various antenatal, intranatal and neonatal factors affecting the pattern of NICU admission in our tertiary care centre, were assessed. Results Most common antenatal factors leading to NICU admission were preterm labour, Bad Obstetric History in mothers, anemia and foetal growth restriction. Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia was noted to be the most common neonatal factor leading to NICU admisssion. Induction of labor with PGE2 gel was the most intervention leading to NICU admissions. Prematurity was the most common factor leading to neonatal mortality. Conclusion Modifiable risk factors when identified and acted upon, improve neonatal outcomes and reduce the stress and economic burden of NICU admissions. Mothers with previous pregnancy losses need to be more carefully monitored throughout pregnancy

Keywords : NICU admissions, neonatal morbidity, Prematurity, Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia.