Neonatal hypothermia in a tertiary health facility in Ondo state: prevalence, outcomes and way forward

Background: Hypothermia, by the World Health Organization (WHO) is defined as a core temperature of less than 36.50C. It is one of the neonatal emergencies which increases morbidity and mortality in the newborn period if not resolved quickly. The study sets out to determine the prevalence, associated factors, outcomes and possibly proffer solution to the problems. Methods: This was a prospective study in which all babies admitted into the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) in the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Akure were monitored for hypothermia over a nine-month period. Results: A total of 145 neonates were admitted over the study period. The overall prevalence of hypothermia was 51.7%, with preterm neonates significantly more affected than term neonates (59.3% vs 46.5%, p=0.02). Moderate hypothermia was more common among preterm neonates while mild hypothermia predominated among term neonates. Radiant warmer use was the most common form of thermal care (80.0%), while skin-to-skin care was utilized in only 3.4% of cases. Time of delivery (p=0.011) and low Apgar score (p=0.042) were significantly associated with hypothermia. The overall mortality was 4.1%. Conclusions: Neonatal hypothermia was prevalent in over half of admitted neonates, with prematurity, low Apgar score, and time of delivery and mode of delivery as significant risk factors. Strengthening thermal care practices, particularly skin-to-skin care utilization and consistent delivery room protocols, remains essential to reducing hypothermia related neonatal morbidity and mortality in this setting.