PREDICTORS AND OUTCOMES OF NEONATAL SEPSIS IN TERTIARY CARE SETTING: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Neonatal sepsis represents a critical challenge in healthcare, particularly in tertiary care settings. A comprehensive understanding of the predictors and consequences is pivotal for enhancing clinical practice and patient outcomes. A retrospective study was conducted on a sample size of 120 neonates to explore the predictors and outcomes of neonatal sepsis. The analysis encompassed a wide range of variables, including maternal characteristics (e.g., age, religion, education), obstetric factors (e.g., PROM, UTI/STI history), neonatal demographics (e.g., age, sex, birth weight), healthcare facilities (e.g., place of delivery, length of stay), and clinical care parameters (e.g., invasive procedures, mode of delivery). Multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify relationships between these factors and sepsis outcomes. Maternal and obstetric factors showed significant correlations with neonatal sepsis. Neonatal characteristics revealed a mean age of 3.1 days, equal gender distribution, and a mean birth weight of 2.6 kg. Health facility indicators pointed to balanced utilization and transport means. Clinical care variables illustrated a balance in delivery modes and attendance. The logistic regression model (Nagelkerke R²: 0.52) identified specific coefficients indicating relationships between variables and sepsis. The mortality rate among neonates with sepsis was 27.8%, with an average stay of 15 days and 38.9% complications rate. The study provides valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of neonatal sepsis, emphasizing the importance of maternal and clinical care factors. The results underscore the necessity for early identification, targeted interventions, and comprehensive care strategies to reduce the incidence and adverse outcomes of neonatal sepsis in tertiary care settings.