PATTERN OF ADMISSION AND OUTCOME OF NEONATES ADMITTED IN NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Abstract

Background: The neonatal period is the most vulnerable phase of life, contributing significantly to under-five mortality worldwide. Despite global progress, neonatal mortality remains high in developing countries, particularly in

Pakistan, where rates exceed those of neighboring countries (UNICEF et al., 2018; World Bank, 2021). Common causes of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions include prematurity, birth asphyxia, neonatal sepsis, and respiratory conditions.

Objective: To determine the pattern of admissions and outcomes of neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study will be conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Bolan Medical College Quetta, over a period of six months. A total of 274 neonates admitted to the NICU will be included using non-probability consecutive sampling. Data will be collected using a structured proforma, including demographic variables (maternal age, residence), clinical characteristics (gestational age, birth weight, APGAR score), and reasons for admission. The primary outcome will be mortality. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 24, with quantitative variables presented as mean ± SD or median (IQR), and qualitative variables as frequencies and percentages. Statistical significance will be set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results: It is anticipated that prematurity, birth asphyxia, and neonatal sepsis will be the leading causes of NICU admissions, with a measurable proportion of neonatal mortality observed during hospitalization.

Conclusion: This study will provide insight into the current patterns of NICU admissions and neonatal outcomes in a tertiary care setting, which may help in developing targeted strategies to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality in the region.