HYPOTHERMIA IN PRETERM INFANTS < 34 WEEKS : DISTRIBUTION, RISK FACTORS AND OUTCOMES

Abstract

Background: Neonatal hypothermia is a progressive reduction in the axillary temperature of the newborn (temperature < 36.5°C). It is categorized as mild hypothermia (36°C–36.4°C), moderate hypothermia (32°C–35.9°C), and severe hypothermia (<32°C). Neonates are prone to rapid heat loss and consequent hypothermia because of the large surface area-to-body mass ratio, decreased subcutaneous fat, immature skin, high body water content, poorly developed metabolic mechanism, and altered skin blood ow. Hypothermic neonates had a higher risk of developing hypoglycemia, respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, and metabolic acidosis. The Aims And Objectives: aim of the study was to study the occurrence of neonatal hypothermia among preterm infants (<34 weeks) its distribution , risk factors and outcomes. All Inclusion Criteria: preterm neonates(<34weeks) admitted to NICU in RRMCH, Bengaluru. Preterm > 34 weeks Exclusion Criteria: and term neonates . Preterm neonates with major congenital malformations. Temperature of preterm newborn babies Methods: was recorded with digital thermometer in axillary region and measured in degree Celsius at admission. Clinical characteristics, neonatal outcome and risk factors of hypothemia was identied The prospective observation study included 40 infants. The association be Results: tween Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and hypothermia was statistically signicant(p<0.05). The birth weight is signicantly(p<0.05) associated with the admission temperature. Positive correlation was found between birthweight and the temperature at admission implying that as the birthweight increases, temperature at admission increases and this association was found to be statistically signicant. Gestati Conclusion: onal age at birth and hypothermia at admission were independent risk factors for the occurrence of hypothermia in the rst hours during admission. A variety of interventions, such as polyethylene bags, heating mattresses or increasing the delivery room temperature, have been shown to reduce hypothermia in premature infants. Hypothermic neonates had a higher risk of developing neonatal hyperbilirubinemia followed by respiratory distress syndrome