Magnitude of Neonatal Hypothermia and Its Risk Factors Among Hospitalized Neonates in Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Newborn hypothermia is a critical global health challenge, particularly in low-resource settings, where it significantly contributes to neonatal morbidity and mortality. A mere one-degree drop in a newborn’s body temperature can substantially increase the risk of death. Understanding hypothermia factors is key to developing strategies to reduce neonatal mortality. Despite its status as a leading cause of neonatal death, no studies have been conducted in the study area to determine the prevalence and associated factors of neonatal hypothermia. Method: An institution-based cross-sectional study of 237 participants employed systematic random sampling. Data collection involved interviews and chart reviews, analyzed using SPSS Version 27.0. Bivariable logistic regression identified associations with a p value < 0.25, and multivariate logistic regression determined significant factors with a p value < 0.05. Result: The prevalence of neonatal hypothermia among newborns in this study was 54% (128 cases). Mothers whose labor was induced were 2.3 times more likely to have a hypothermic newborn (AOR = 2.276, 95% CI: 1.019–5.081). Newborns delivered at home were seven times more likely to develop hypothermia (AOR = 7.031, 95% CI: 1.018–48.582). Additionally, mothers without pregnancy complications were 0.4 times less likely to have a hypothermic baby compared to those who experienced pregnancy complications (AOR = 0.464, 95% CI: 0.235–0.997). Conclusion: The prevalence of neonatal hypothermia in the study area was found to be 54%. Factors associated with neonatal hypothermia included labor induction, home delivery, and complications during pregnancy.