Neonatal Infection in Srinagarind Hospital, 1987-1990

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Three hundred thirty-eight episodes of severe systemic infections in neonatal ward were analysed between 1987 and 1990.  An incidence of 15.2:100 admissions or 10.4:1000 live births of neonatal infection were docomented.  There were 57.4% (194 espisodes) of neonatal septicemia, 34.3% (116 episodes) of clinical sepsis and 8.3% (28 episodes) of congenital pneumonia during the period.  Sixty-two per cent were male and 53.8% were premature infants.  Sixty-seven per cent were low birth weight with 22.8% had birth weight less than 1500 g. Only 58.9% were in the high risk group for infections.  Twenty-seven per cent of cases had surgical problems which needed operation.  Most common underlying condition was hyaline membrane disease.  Gram negative bacilli were still the most common causative agent.  Anemia was the common complication.
Eventhough prompt antibiotics administration and appropriated supportive management, the mortality rate was still high (32.2%).  Increasing multiply resistant strain of bacteria is considered to be a problem.  Further evaluation of the role of neonatal management including antibiotics usage may decrease the mortality rate.