To Study the Disease Pattern and Immediate Outcome of Admissions of Low Birth Weight Neonate to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Teaching Hospital.

Abstract

Background- The neonate birth weight represents their initial weight measurement, typically taken within the first few hours after birth, before any significant postnatal weight reduction. Low birth weight is specifically defined as a birth weight below 2500g, in accordance with the World Health Organization's criteria. It is recognized as the primary predictor for neonatal mortality, particularly concerning fatalities occurring within the initial months of life. Aim to the present study to find out the disease pattern and immediate outcome of admissions of low birth weight neonate to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the teaching hospital.

Methodology - The study involved a retrospective analysis of medical records for all neonates admitted during the study period were reviewed  and analysed for age, weight, gender, reasons for admission, length of hospital stay, diagnosis, and final outcomes were carefully reviewed. This analysis aimed to identify trends and key indicators associated with inpatient neonatal mortality.

Result - The total number of neonates admitted during the study period was 316, 175 were male (55.37%), and 141 were female (44.62%). The majority (77.53%) being cured and discharged, while 22.46% of individuals unfortunately passed away. Notably, the major morbidity contributing to mortality was Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) resulted in a 47.82% mortality rate against 69 admissions, accounting for 36.26% of overall deaths.

Conclusion- Low birth weight remains a significant risk factor for infant mortality, it is imperative to individually assess various starta of LBW under the view of the different determinants of health involved.