Outcome of newborns referred to the special newborn care unit of a tertiary newborn care hospital in Central India

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to study the outcomes of newborns referred to the special newborn care unit (SNCU) of a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 893 neonates referred from community health centers and district hospitals from April 2024 to March 2025. Data regarding demographic details, birth weight, gestational age, primary diagnosis, and outcomes were analyzed. Results: Of the 893 admissions, 64% were male. Term neonates constituted 73.8% while 26.2% were preterm. Low birth weight (<2500 g) accounted for 50.7% of cases. The leading causes of admission were birth asphyxia (20%), sepsis (18.4%), jaundice (16.5%), and respiratory disorders (12.8%). The overall discharge rate was 69%, mortality was 26.7%, and 4.3% left against medical advice. Duration of stay analysis revealed that 4.6% stayed <1 day, 22.2% for 1–3 days, 30.9% for 4–7 days, and 42.3% >7 days, with prolonged admissions generally associated with improved outcomes. Conclusion: Birth asphyxia, sepsis, and jaundice were the leading causes of referral and mortality. Strengthening perinatal care, timely stabilization before referral, and effective neonatal transport can improve survival outcomes in SNCUs.