Risk factors for neonatal intensive care unit admission in Amman, Jordan

Area of Science:

• Neonatalogy
• Public Health
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission rates and associated risk factors are critical indicators of newborn health.
• Understanding local determinants of NICU admission is essential for targeted public health interventions and improved neonatal survival.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize neonates admitted to the NICU in Amman, Jordan.
• To compare NICU admissions with infants discharged home.
• To identify significant risk factors for NICU admission in this population.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study was conducted at Al-Bashir Hospital, enrolling neonates born within 96 hours.
• Demographic and clinical data were collected from mothers and newborns between February 2010 and June 2011.
• Statistical analysis identified risk factors associated with NICU admission.

Main Results:

• Out of 5466 enrolled neonates, 373 (6.8%) were admitted to the NICU.
• NICU infants had a median gestational age of 36 weeks and a median birth weight of 2.2 kg.
• Lower gestational age, lower birth weight, non-elective Cesarean section, and birth in May were significant risk factors for NICU admission.

Conclusions:

• Risk factors for NICU admission in Jordan align with global trends.
• The study highlights the need for interventions addressing prematurity and low birth weight.
• Median gestational age and birth weight for NICU admissions were higher than reported in developed countries, suggesting unique population-specific considerations.