Abstract:

Background: Neonatal morbidity and mortality remain a significant global health challenge, particularly in developing countries like India. The primary aim of this study is to analyze the profile of neonatal admissions in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of a tertiary care hospital, GMC RAJOURI, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Materials and method: By examining various aspects of neonatal admissions, the This study was conducted in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of  GMC RAJOURI, a tertiary care hospital over a specified period. The methodology involved a detailed and systematic approach to collect, analyze, and interpret data related to neonatal admissions. Results: The majority of neonates were admitted shortly after birth: Within the first 72 hours : 980(90.6%) and Beyond 72 hours: 108 (9.4%). A significant proportion (44.3%) of admitted neonates were preterm, with late preterm infants (34–36 weeks) forming the majority (41.1%). Low birth weight (LBW) was observed in 34.6% of cases, further reinforcing the need for maternal nutritional support and strategies to prevent preterm births. Among the primary causes of neonatal admissions, perinatal asphyxia (36.1%) emerged as the leading contributor, followed by neonatal sepsis (24.6%). Respiratory distress syndrome (8.9%) and meconium aspiration syndrome (1.9%) were other major contributors to morbidity, necessitating the continued use of CPAP, surfactant therapy, and effective resuscitation techniques. Additionally, neonatal jaundice requiring phototherapy was noted in 18.6% of cases, emphasizing the importance of early screening and management of hyperbilirubinemia. Outborn neonates (36.4%) were found to have more severe clinical conditions.

Conclusion: Overall, this study highlights the urgent need for improved antenatal care, early neonatal interventions, and efficient referral and transport systems to reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality. Future multicenter studies are warranted to validate these findings and guide evidence-based neonatal healthcare policies in India. A holistic approach integrating maternal health programs, neonatal resuscitation training, and infection control measures will be pivotal in ensuring better neonatal survival rates in resource-limited settings.