Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis for the Significant Neonatal and Maternal Risk Factors Related to Neonatal Sepsis

Abstract

Background: It is known that risk factors related to neonatal bacterial sepsis are complex. Objectives: The current study aimed to determine the risk factors of neonatal sepsis. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 1023 neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in South Sinai governorate hospitals from January 2010 till September 2014. Demographic data of the neonates and the potential risk factors for neonatal septicemia were collected and analyzed. Results: The incidence of septicemia in the NICUs of South Sinai governorate hospitals was 8.6% and a mortality rate among sepsis cases (sepsis fatality rate) was about 25%. The percentage of cases with late-onset sepsis (68.2%) was predominant than early-onset sepsis (31.8%). Hospital acquired infections represented 30.7% of the sepsis cases. A multivariate logistic regression analysis for the significant neonatal and maternal risk factors related to neonatal sepsis was performed to explain the interaction between these risk factors and order these risk factors regarding statistical significance. The results showed that the highest effect on sepsis was for rupture of membranes >18 hours then the presence of twin deliveries came next, followed by multipara mothers then normal vaginal delivery came 4th in order followed by male gender, low birth weight babies and preterm neonates which became nonsignificant in this multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusions: Rupture of membranes > 18 hours, the presence of twin deliveries came next, multipara mothers, normal vaginal delivery came 4th in order, followed by male gender are the most common risk factors for neonatal sepsis in Sinai governorate hospitals, Egypt.