A 4 year review of neonatal outcome at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City.

BACKGROUND: Neonatal morbidity and mortality rates reflect a nation's socio-economic status, the efficiency and effectiveness of health care services. This important indicator is useful in planning for improved healthcare delivery. A four year review of neonatal outcome was therefore conducted in the special care baby Unit (SCBU) of University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).

METHODS AND SUBJECTS: The study was done between 2003 and 2006 and sought to review the morbidity, mortality, salvage rate of low birth weight babies and outcome of all inborn and outborn babies admitted into the SCBU of UBTH. The biodata, birth weight, sex, APGAR scores and reasons for admissions and outcome were abstracted from case notes/admission records.

RESULT: A total of 3075 babies were admitted to the unit during the period under review. 2602 (84.6%) were inborn while 473 (15.4%) were out-born. There were more males 1676 (54.6%). There were 855 (27.8%) preterm babies of which 803 (26.1%) were low birth weight babies. Neonatal sepsis, severe birth asphyxia, pre-maturity and neonatal tetanus were the most common morbidities suffered by the neonates. Mortality was recorded amongst 625 (20.3%) babies. Mortality rate was significantly higher amongst the out-born than in born babies, P value < 0.0001.

CONCLUSION: The neonatal mortality rate in this study is high. The morbidity profile observed in the study is attributable to preventable causes. Of note is the contribution ofNNT to morbidity and mortality. Strengthening of linkages in perinatal care, improving maternal emergency obstetric care and neonatal resuscitation skills are proposed measures to reduce neonatal mortality.