ELECTROLYTE ABNORMALITIES IN PRETERM NEONATES

Abstract

Background: Electrolyte abnormalities are common in preterm neonates. Unless electrolyte abnormalities are detected and treated promptly, it significantly affects clinical conditions, increases mortality, or induces long-term neurological sequelae. Therefore, we conducted this study with specific aims to describe the electrolyte status in preterm neonates and find out the relationship between electrolyte disorders and clinical characteristics in preterm neonates. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out with 110 preterm neonates admitted at the NICU in Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital and Hue Central Hospital from June 2020 to March 2021. Results: Average serum values of sodium, potassium, chloride were 136.66; 4.59, and 101.72 mmol/l, respectively. Hyponatremia was the most common disorder with 30.9%, followed by hyperkalaemia (14.5%). Hypochloremia was accounted for 13.6%. Gestational age, birth weight, and asphyxia were significantly associated with the risk of hyperkalaemia (odd ratio: 5.27; 14.92; and 20.71, respectively). Birth weight, vomiting, and asphyxia were significantly linked to increased risk of hyponatremia in preterm neonates (odd ratio: 4.45; 28.13, and 3.49, respectively). Conclusion: The two common types of electrolyte disorders in preterm neonates were hyponatremia and hyperkalaemia. Key words: Hyperkalaemia, hyponatremia, preterm neonates.