Immediate Neonatal Outcomes in Early Neonatal Period in all the Newborns Born at a Tertiary Care Center, Tumkur-A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: The early neonatal period is a critical phase associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Immediate neonatal outcomes are influenced by maternal, obstetric, and perinatal factors. Understanding these outcomes in a tertiary care setting is essential for improving neonatal survival and quality of care.

Objectives: To assess immediate neonatal outcomes during the early neonatal period and to evaluate their association with maternal and perinatal risk factors.

Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted among 220 neonates delivered at a tertiary care centre in Tumkur. Maternal demographic details, obstetric risk factors, booking status, mode of delivery, and neonatal parameters were recorded. Neonates were followed during the early neonatal period for the development of complications such as respiratory distress, neonatal jaundice, sepsis, hypoglycemia, congenital pneumonia, birth asphyxia, and mortality. Data were analysed using appropriate descriptive statistics.

Results: Among 220 neonates, the majority had favourable outcomes. The most common neonatal morbidities observed were neonatal jaundice (32.3%), transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) (12.27%), hypoglycemia (8.2%), and sepsis (7.7%).Congenital pneumonia (3.18%), birth asphyxia (2.27%) and Respiratory distress syndrome (1.82%) were also observed in a smaller proportion of cases. Most mothers were booked cases (79.5%). The overall neonatal mortality rate was low (0.45%). Prematurity and maternal risk factors such as hypertensive disorders, diabetes, and PROM were associated with increased neonatal morbidity.

Conclusion: Although most neonates had satisfactory early outcomes, preventable morbidities were observed, particularly among high-risk pregnancies. Strengthening antenatal care, early risk identification, and timely neonatal interventions are crucial to further reduce neonatal morbidity and sustain low mortality rates.