Background: Neonatal period is most precious time because most of the preventable morbidities and mortalities occur in this period. In developing countries prematurity, infection and perinatal asphyxia are three major causes for neonatal mortality. Special Neonatal Care Units (SNCUs) have been established at district hospitals to combat this challenge.

Methods: This observational retrospective study was planned to determine the clinical profile and outcome of neonatal admissions at SNCU, MGMSC, Khaneri, a hospital serving the rural and tribal population. Detailed information was collected from files and registers onto the preset proformas and results were compiled and evaluated on master chart.

Results: A total of 105 neonates were included in this study. Out of them 46(43.8%) were inborn and 56.2% were admitted from emergency or outpatient department. There were 53 males and 52 females with male to female ratio of 1:1.01. 66.6% were full term and 33.4% were preterm. Major indications for admission were neonatal jaundice [56(53.3%], respiratory distress [24(22.8%)] and sepsis [20(19.4%)]. The range of hospital stay was from 3 days to 15days with average hospital stay of 4 days. 81(77.6%) babies were discharged after improvement, 18(17.4%) were referred to higher centers, 4(3.1%) left against medical advice and there were 2(1.9%) mortalities. Common causes for mortality and referral were birth asphyxia, prematurity and hyperbilirubinaemia.

Conclusion: Neonatal period is most vulnerable time for development of morbidity and mortality. SNCUs with skilled staff can prevent the worst outcomes by early interventions.

Keywords: SNCU, Neonate, Morbidity, Mortality, Outcome.

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Dr Ashok Garg

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