Profile of neonates on arrival with regards to transport associated morbidity

Abstract

Transport of seriously ill children to tertiary centres, under controlled conditions has a direct effect on morbidity and mortality. Poor transport is one of the iatrogenic factors and it is a neglected global issue, especially in the developing world, results in significant annual mortality, as we have scarce and inaccessible facilities and under developed communication system. Data including demographic parameters and transport details were recorded in a structured proforma. Most of the babies who are transported are appropriate for gestational age (71%) and remaining are small for gestational age. The incidence of hypothermia in SGA babies was 86% when compare to AGA babies (61%). Whereas the effect of hypoxia and capillary filling time was more in AGA babies (14%) when compare to SGA babies (3%).