Extreme neonatal morbidity and its outcomes in a high complexity hospital in 2013

Abstract

Introduction. Extreme neonatal morbidity refers to any event that occurs in the first twenty-eight days of life with imminent vital risk. It is multifactorial and delays in treatment are relevant. It was described for the first time as a public health indicator in Brazil in 2010. Methodology. This was a cross-sectional study in a high complexity hospital in 2013. Sociodemographic and assistance characteristics, morbidity events and their outcomes, the indicator itself, neonatal mortality, and delays in treatment (types I - IV) were reviewed. Results. 1,190 neonates were entered, 120 cases occurred and the first 60 were analyzed due to data saturation. The extreme neonatal morbidity rate was 59 for every 1,000 children born alive and the mortality rate was 13.9. This was similar to the figures in Brazil and greater than national statistics (33 for every 1,000). The most significant events with respect to mortality were weight lower than 1,500 grams, mechanical ventilation, an Apgar score lower than 7 at 5 minutes and congenital anomalies. Delays from mothers were predominantly type I (45.4%) due to poor prenatal control. The most frequent neonatal delay was type IV (40%) due to bad adherence to institutional protocols. Discussion. The local indicator was greater than the national indicator due to the institutional complexity and delays in treatment, which cause statistical saturation. This can be improved with better adherence to existing strategies, such as prenatal control and institutional protocols. Conclusion. Extreme neonatal morbidity shows the flaws in maternal - neonatal healthcare.