Perinatal and newborn care in a two years retrospective study in a first level peripheral hospital in Sicily (Italy)

Challenges and opportunities in pediatric residency: an analysis of the increasing number of residents in Italy

BACKGROUND

Pediatric residency in Italy has undergone significant changes in recent years, with a notable increase in the number of pediatric residents. Exploring the implications of this increase, highlighting disparities in training opportunities, and discussing the broader socio-economic impacts on pediatric healthcare, represent a crucial consideration for the healthcare system in the future.

MAIN BODY

The Italian National Association of Pediatric Residents ("Osservatorio Nazionale Specializzandi in Pediatria", ONSP) conducted an extensive survey among pediatric residents to assess the current state of pediatric residency. Key findings indicate that 50% of respondents believe the number of residents is excessive for the available training opportunities, leading to concerns about the quality of education and hands-on experience. Despite the increased number of residents, the workload has increased, but up to one-third of residents feel that the autonomy provided by their programs is insufficient. Significant disparities in training quality were found across different regions, with notable shortages in neonatology and pediatric emergency departments. Research opportunities are also limited, with only 17% of residents finding the time allocated to research satisfactory, especially in central and southern Italy.

CONCLUSION

The increase in pediatric residents presents both challenges and opportunities. Addressing these challenges through strategic reforms, such as implementing standardized national curricula, investing in training resources and mobility programs, and enhancing research opportunities, is crucial for the future of pediatric residency in Italy. Ensuring high-quality training for all residents is an ethical and practical obligation that will significantly impact pediatric healthcare.

Relationship between platelet count and severity of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome

BACKGROUND

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) is a primary cause of morbidity and mortality in premature infants. Platelets have a unique role in lung repair and remodeling. This study aimed to determine the relationship between platelet count and NRDS severity.

METHODS

The study included 234 newborns diagnosed with NRDS from January 2019 to August 2023. This study employed two methods of grouping: the first based on platelet count, dividing participants into thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 150 × 109/L, n = 50) and non-thrombocytopenia groups (platelet count ≥ 150 × 109/L, n = 184), and the second based on the severity of NRDS, categorizing them into severe (n = 24) and mild-moderate (n = 210) groups. Within the first grouping method, the thrombocytopenia group was further subdivided into moderate-severe group (platelet count < 100 × 109/L, n = 4) and mild group (platelet count was between 100.0 × 109/L and 150.0 × 109/L, n = 46). This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics of NRDS with thrombocytopenia, explore the correlation between platelet count and clinical indicators of NRDS. Binary Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify independent risk factors for thrombocytopenia in NRDS.

RESULTS

A higher proportion of newborns in the severe group exhibited thrombocytopenia (severe group = 41.7%, mild-moderate group = 19.0%). Hospital stay, ventilation time, oxygen therapy duration were longer in the thrombocytopenia group compared to the non-thrombocytopenia group. Hospital stay, ventilation time, oxygen therapy duration, chest radiography score, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were inversely associated with platelet count. Conversely, Apgar scores at 1 and 5 min, gestational age, and birth weight showed positive correlations with platelet count. Point-biserail correlation showed that thrombocytopenia was more likely to occur in newborns whose mothers had gestational hypertension, and the lower platelet count, the more severe NRDS. Oxygen therapy duration, birth weight < 1500 g, gestational hypertension and CRP levels emerged as independent risk factors for thrombocytopenia in NRDS. All differences were statistically significant (p all < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

NRDS accompanied by thrombocytopenia indicates a more severe condition and poorer clinical outcomes. It is hypothesized that NRDS with thrombocytopenia involves a complex multifactorial etiology, including severe lung inflammation.

Association of neonatal outcome with birth weight for gestational age in Chinese very preterm infants: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The neonatal outcomes across different percentiles of birth weight for gestational age are still unclear.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted within 57 tertiary hospitals participating in the Chinese Neonatal Network (CHNN) from 25 provinces throughout China. Infants with gestational age (GA) 24+0-31+6 weeks who were admitted within 7 days after birth were included. The composite outcome was defined as mortality or any one of neonatal major morbidities, including necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), severe intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), cystic periventricular leukomalacia (cPVL), severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and sepsis. Multivariable logistic regressions using generalized estimating equation approach were conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 8380 infants were included with a mean GA of 30 (28-31) weeks. Of these, 1373 (16.5%) were born at less than 28 weeks, while 6997 (83.5%) had a GA between 28 and 32 weeks. Our analysis indicated that the risk of composite outcomes was negatively associated with birth weight for gestational age, and compared to the reference group, the multiple-adjusted ORs (95%CI) of composite outcomes were 4.89 (3.51-6.81) and 2.16 (1.77-2.63) for infants with birth weight for gestational less than 10th percentile and 10th -30th percentile, respectively. The ORs (95%CI) of mortality, NEC, BPD, severe ROP, and sepsis in infants with birth weight for gestational age at 10th-30th percentile were 1.94 (1.56-2.41), 1.08 (0.79-1.47), 2.48 (2.03-3.04), 2.35 (1.63-3.39), and 1.39 (1.10-1.77), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggested that the risk of adverse neonatal outcomes increased significantly when the birth weight for gestational age was below the 30th percentile. Regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial for these high-risk infants.

The effect of benzylpenicillin prohylaxis after birth on length and weight of syphilis-exposed infants in eastern China

BACKGROUND

We conducted this study to assess the impact of an intervention to interrupt mother-to-child transmission on the height and weight of syphilis-exposed infants after receiving penicillin prophylaxis after birth and to provide a scientific basis for further elimination of mother-to-child transmission.

METHODS

We recruited 419 infants born to syphilis-infected mothers from 2015 to 2020 in Changzhou, and performed 1:1 matching to infants born to syphilis-free mothers during the same period. All infants were followed up to 18 months of age. We collected height and weight data and compared them.

RESULTS

At 18 months of age, the height and weight of the syphilis-exposed infants were almost greater than the WHO reference standards. However, when compared with local unexposed infants, there were almost no differences. The boys born to mothers who received two courses of treatment had longer body lengths at 18 months of age than did those born to mothers who did not receive two courses of treatment, and the girls born to mothers who did not receive treatment had lower body weights at 3 months of age than did both treated groups.

CONCLUSION

The growth trajectory of infants without congenital syphilis born to syphilis-infected mothers is virtually indistinguishable from that of the general local population. Syphilis-exposed newborns can receive preventive treatment as a public health intervention.

Clinical application of flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy in neonatal respiratory diseases

BACKGROUND

Respiratory disease is a predominantly observed problem in neonates. Moreover, the application of flexible bronchoscopy in newborns is gradually increasing. This study aimed to investigate the value of bronchoscopy in neonates respiratory abnormalities and evaluate the safety of bronchoscopy application.

METHODS

Clinical data and outcomes of 56 neonates who underwent flexible bronchoscopy were retrospectively analyzed. Correlations among indications for bronchoscopy, findings, and clinical diseases were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 56 neonates had a minimum weight of 1200 g at the time of bronchoscopy, while the minimum gestational age at birth was 26 + 1 weeks. A total of 22 cases (39.3%) had two or more clinical indications; the five most common indications were respiratory distress in 24 (42.9%), stridor in 22 (39.3%), pulmonary atelectasis in 10 (17.6%), feeding difficulty in 10 (17.6%), and difficult weaning from mechanical ventilation in 6 (10.7%) cases. A total of 13 types of abnormalities were detected in the respiratory tract. The most common abnormalities were laryngomalacia in 29 (59.2%), tracheobroncomalacia in 8 (16.3%), and vocal cord paralysis in 6 (12.2%) cases. Bronchoalveolar lavage was performed in 39 cases. Eight cases were diagnosed by bronchoscopy and then treated with surgery in the Thoracic Surgery/Otolaryngology Department; all of them were cured and discharged from the hospital after surgery. No serious complications, such as pneumothorax or shock, occurred in any of the children, of whom none died.

CONCLUSIONS

Flexible bronchoscopy could play an important role in diagnosing and identifying respiratory disorders in neonates and be safely used with few serious complications.

Clinical analysis of influenza in the neonatal intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

The aim was to investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment and prognosis of neonatal influenza.

METHODS

The clinical data of 21 neonates who were diagnosed with influenza and admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Henan Provincial Children's Hospital, China, between January 2023 and January 2024 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients were admitted, including 14 with influenza A and 7 with influenza B. Eighteen of these patients were reported to have been exposed to family members with respiratory symptoms before hospitalization. Among all the patients' mothers, only 1 received the influenza vaccine during pregnancy. Fifteen newborns had fever, 13 appetite loss, 10 cough, 9 shortness of breath, 9 nasal obstruction, 3 runny nose, 3 vomiting, 2 severe wheezing, 2 choking, 2 diarrhea, 1 bloating, and 1 sputum in the throat. The pulmonary auscultation sounds were coarse in 19 neonates, weak in 2, moist rales were appreciated in 5 and wheezing in 4 of them. The peripheral total white blood cell count was normal in 18 patients and elevated in 3. The C-reactive protein level was normal in all subjects, and the procalcitonin level was elevated in 1. Nineteen patients had pneumonia on chest imaging. All patients were treated with oseltamivir and finally recovered.

CONCLUSION

Influenza A is the most common type of neonatal influenza. The clinical symptoms are atypical, and fever is the main symptom. Treatment with oseltamivir is safe and effective, and the prognosis is mostly favorable.

Neonatal birth asphyxia and associated factors among newborns delivered and admitted to NICU in selected public hospitals, under Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

In developing countries birth asphyxia is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Despite the implementation of various strategies and interventions to combat neonatal mortality rates, birth asphyxia remains the main public health concern in Ethiopia. Moreover, limited studies have been conducted, especially in the study area and there are no multicenter analyses available to generate evidence for action. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the burden and associated factors of birth asphyxia among newborns in the selected public hospitals of the Addis Ababa City Administration Health Bureau.

METHODS

Three hundred forty-three mother-child pairs who used delivery services and gave birth in the selected public hospitals were included in the study, and institution based cross sectional study design was employed. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A pretested, structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. The physician's/health care professionals diagnosis of an Apgar score less than 7 within the first five minutes of life led to the confirmation of the diagnosis of birth asphyxia. SPSS version 24 was used for analysis after the data were exported from Epi Info version 7.2. Multivariate logistic regression analysis included variables which had P-values less than 0.25 in the bivariable logistic regression analysis. The study findings were expressed using adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval, and P-value less than 0.05 was used to declare the statistical significance.

RESULTS

The magnitude of birth asphyxia was found to be 17.1% [95% CI; (13.2-21.5)] at the first 5 min. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis cord accident [AOR = 6.24: 95% CI; (1.24-31.32)], prolonged duration of labor [AOR = 2.49: 95% CI; (1.93-10.89)], and meconium-stained amniotic fluid [AOR = 3.33: 95% CI; (1.73-6.41)] were the predictors of birth asphyxia.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this research indicate that birth asphyxia is a prevalent neonatal problem at the study area. Therefore, the Addis Ababa Health Bureau must prioritize integrated mitigation interventions targeting high-risk pregnancies to achieve national and international commitment to sustainable changes in newborn health.

The effect of on-site and on-call nurse on exclusive breastfeeding in two different hospital settings: a prospective observational cohort study

BACKGROUND

Exclusive breastfeeding during postpartum hospitalization is very important for ensuring the success of breastfeeding at home. The aim of the study is to determine if the on-site nurse in rooming in improves exclusive breastfeeding ratio.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective observational cohort study to evaluate exclusive breastfeeding during the first three months of life in two Neonatology Units in the South of Italy with different hospital settings: Ente Ecclesiastico Miulli of Acquaviva delle Fonti with on-site nurse h24 (on-site group) and Policlinico of Bari with nurse available on call h24 from Neonatology Unit (on-call group).

RESULTS

A total of 564 mother-baby dyads were admitted from 3 January to 31 March 2018 (299 in on-site group and 265 in on-call group). In the overall population, exclusive breastfeeding rate was 76.4% at 90-days, confirming the role of nurse and rooming in, independently of modality of setting. Considering the way of delivery, in infants from cesarean section there were higher rates for exclusive breastfeeding at 30 and 90 days of life in on-site group.

CONCLUSIONS

We can assume that the presence of a nurse h24 could better identify breastfeeding problems. Our study suggests the role of on-site nurse during rooming in to encourage exclusive breastfeeding until three months of life in mothers who underwent caesarean section.

Impact of implementation of 2019 European respiratory distress syndrome guidelines on bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very preterm infants

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the impact of implementation of 2019 European respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) guidelines on the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

METHOD

We retrospectively collected the clinical data of very preterm infants (VPIs) born before 32 gestational weeks from January 1st 2018 to December 31st 2021. VPIs were divided into group A and group B according to their birth date which was before or at/after January 1st 2020, when the 2019 European RDS guidelines were introduced. BPD is considered as primary outcome. We statistically analyzed all the data, and we compared the general characteristics, ventilation support, medication, nutrition and the outcomes between the two groups.

RESULTS

A total of 593 VPIs were enrolled, including 380 cases in group A and 213 cases in group B. There were no statistic differences regarding to gender ratio, gestational age, birth weight and delivery mode between the two groups. Compared with group A, group B showed higher rate of antenatal corticosteroid therapy (75.1% vs. 65.5%). The improvement of ventilation management in these latter patients included lower rate of invasive ventilation (40.4% vs. 50.0%), higher rate of volume guarantee (69.8% vs. 15.3%), higher positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) [6 (5, 6) vs. 5 (5, 5) cmH2O] and higher rate of synchronized nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (sNIPPV) (36.2% vs. 5.6%). Compared with group A, group B received higher initial dose of pulmonary surfactant [200 (160, 200) vs. 170 (130, 200) mg/Kg], shorter antibiotic exposure time [13 (7, 23) vs. 17 (9, 33) days], more breast milk (86.4% vs. 70.3%) and earlier medication for hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) treatment [3 (3, 4) vs. 8 (4, 11) days] (p < 0.05). As the primary outcome, the incidence of BPD was significantly decreased (16.9% vs. 24.2%) (p < 0.05), along with lower extrauterine growth retardation (EUGR) rate (39.0% vs. 59.7%), while there were no statistic differences regarding to other secondary outcomes, including mortality, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), retinopathy of preterm (ROP) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). However, in the subgroups of infants less than 28 gestational weeks or infants less than 1,000 g, the incidence of BPD was not significantly decreased (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

After implementation of 2019 European RDS guidelines, the overall incidence of BPD was significantly decreased in VPIs. Continuous quality improvement is still needed in order to decrease the incidence of BPD in smaller infants who are less than 28 gestational weeks or less than 1,000 g.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors of severe COVID-19 in hospitalized neonates with omicron variant infection: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Reports on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in neonates are limited, especially in patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) Omicron variant. This study aims to analyze the clinical characteristics and identify risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 in neonates infected with Omicron variant.

METHODS

The study population was represented by neonates with COVID-19, who were admitted to The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University in northwest China, from December 10, 2022 to January 20, 2023. Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that all local COVID-19 cases were infected with Omicron variant during the study period. Clinical and laboratory data were collected retrospectively. We used logistic regression analysis to investigate the risk factors for severe COVID-19, and derived odds ratios (ORs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

A total of 108 neonates, with median age of 18.1 days (interquartile range 9.4-23.0), were affected by COVID-19, of whom 84 had a mild disease, while 24 a severe one (22.2%). Of them, 6.5% were premature. No deaths were observed in the study population. The most common clinical manifestations were fever (88.9%) and cough (55.6%), with 5 cases (4.6%) complicated by pneumonia. 4 cases (3.7%) received respiratory support, including 2 cases of high-flow oxygen and 2 cases of continuous positive airway pressure. Gestational age at birth (OR: 0.615; 95% CI: 0.393-0.961), neutrophil count (NEU) (OR:0.576; 95% CI : 0.344-0.962) and lymphocyte count (LYM) (OR: 0.159; 95% CI: 0.063-0.401) were independent risk factors for severe COVID-19. The combination of NEU and LYM had the largest receiver operating characteristic area under the curve [0.912 (95% CI:0.830-0.993)] for identifying severe COVID-19, with a sensitivity of 0.833 and a specificity of 0.917.

CONCLUSIONS

The general presentations and outcomes of neonatal COVID-19 caused by Omicron variant were not severe, and very few patients required respiratory support. The simultaneous decrease in NEU and LYM can be used to identify severe infection.

Group B streptococcus colonization in pregnancy and neonatal outcomes: a three-year monocentric retrospective study during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a major cause of sepsis and meningitis in newborns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends to pregnant women, between 35 and 37 weeks of gestation, universal vaginal-rectal screening for GBS colonization, aimed at intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP). The latter is the only currently available and highly effective method against early onset GBS neonatal infections. Since the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the preventive measures implemented to mitigate the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection led to the reduction in the access to many health facilities and services, including the obstetric and perinatal ones. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of maternal GBS colonization, as well as use of IAP and incidence of episodes of neonatal GBS infection when antibiotic prophylaxis has not been carried out in colonized and/or at risk subjects, in a population of pregnant women during (years 2020-2021) and after (year 2022) the COVID-19 pandemic, also with the aim to establish possible epidemiological and clinical differences in the two subjects' groups.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of pregnant women admitted to, and delivering, at the Gynaecology and Obstetrics Unit, Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother and Child Care, of the University Hospital of Palermo, Italy, from 01.01.2020 to 31.12.2022. For each of them, we recorded pertinent socio-demographic information, clinical data related to pregnancy, delivery and peripartum, and specifically execution and status of vaginal and rectal swab test for GBS detection, along with eventual administration and modality of IAP. The neonatal outcome was investigated in all cases at risk (positive maternal swabs status for GBS, either vaginal or rectal, with or without/incomplete IAP, preterm labor and/or delivery, premature rupture of membranes ≥ 18 h, previous pregnancy ended with neonatal early onset GBS disease [EOD], urine culture positive for GBS in any trimester of current gestation, intrapartum temperature ≥ 38 °C and/or any clinical/laboratory signs of suspected chorioamnionitis). The data concerning mothers and neonates at risk, observed during the pandemic (years 2020-2021), were compared with those of both subjects' groups with overlapping risk factors recorded in the following period (year 2022). The chi squared test has been applied in order to find out the relationship between pregnant women with GBS colonization receiving IAP and outcome of their neonates.

RESULTS

The total source population of the study consisted of 2109 pregnant women, in addition to their 2144 newborns. Our analysis, however, focused on women and neonates with risk factors. The vaginal-rectal swab for GBS was performed in 1559 (73.92%) individuals. The test resulted positive in 178 cases overall (11.42% of those undergoing the screening). Amongst our whole sample of 2109 subjects, 298 women had an indication for IAP (vaginal and/or rectal GBS colonization, previous pregnancy ended with neonatal GBS EOD, urine culture positive for GBS in any trimester of current gestation, and unknown GBS status at labor onset with at least any among delivery at < 37 weeks' gestation, amniotic membranes rupture ≥ 18 h and/or intrapartum temperature ≥ 38.0 °C), and 64 (21.48%) received adequate treatment; for 23 (7.72%) it was inadequate/incomplete, while 211 (70.8%) did not receive IAP despite maternal GBS colonization and/or the presence of any of the above mentioned risk factors. Comparing the frequency of performing vaginal-rectal swabs in the women admitted in the two time periods, the quote of those screened out of the total in the pandemic period (years 2020-2021) was higher than that of those undergoing GBS screening out of the total admitted in the year 2022 (75.65% vs. 70.38%, p = 0.009), while a greater number (not statistically significant, p = 0.12) of adequate and complete IAP was conducted in 2022, than in the previous biennium (26.36 vs. 18.62%). During the whole 3 years study period, as expected, none of the newborns of mothers with GBS colonization and/or risk factors receiving IAP developed EOD. Conversely, 13 neonates with EOD, out of 179 (7.3%) born to mothers with risk factors, were observed: 3 among these patients' mothers performed incomplete IAP, while the other 10 did not receive IAP. Neither cases of neonatal meningitis, nor deaths were observed. The incidence rate in the full triennium under investigation, estimated as the ratio between the number of babies developing the disease out of the total of 2144 newborns, was 6.06‰; among those born to mothers with risk factors, if comparing the two time periods, the incidence was 8.06% in the pandemic biennium, while 5.45% in the following year, evidencing thus no statistical significance (p = 0.53).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed in our Department an increased prevalence of pregnant women screened for, and colonized by GBS, in the last decade. However, an overall still low frequency of vaginal-rectal swabs performed for GBS, and low number of adequate and complete IAP despite the presence of risk factors have been found, which did not notably change during the two time periods. Moreover, significant EOD incidence rates have been reported among children of mothers carrying risk factors, although also in this case no statistically significant differences have been observed during and after the pandemic. Such data seem to be in contrast to those reported during the COVID-19, showing a decrease in the access to health facilities and increased mortality/morbidity rates also due to the restrictive measures adopted to mitigate the effects of the pandemic. These findings might be explained by the presence within the same metropolitan area of our Department of a COVID hospital and birthing center, which all the patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection referred to, and likely leading to a weaker concern of getting sick perceived by our patients. Although IAP is an easy procedure to implement, however adherence and uniformity in the management protocols are still not optimal. Therefore, the prophylactic measures adopted to date cannot be considered fully satisfactory, and should be improved. Better skills integration and obstetrical-neonatological collaboration, in addition to new effective preventive tools, like vaccines able to prevent invasive disease, may allow further reduction in morbidity and mortality rates related to GBS perinatal infection.

Evaluation of SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α in preterm infants with brain injury

BACKGROUND

Prematurity-related brain injury is a common and serious complication that has long-term effects on the survival and development of affected infants. Currently, the roles of certain biomarkers such as the protein hydrolysis product SBDP145, melatonin, soluble lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (sLOX-1), high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) in prematurity-related brain injury remain not fully elucidated. Our study aims to assess the significance of SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α in preterm infants with brain injury.

METHODS

135 preterm infants admitted to our hospital from January 2020 to February 2022 were selected and divided into 78 cases in a prematurity-associated brain injury group, and 57 cases in another group of preterm infants without brain injury or other diseases according to the magnetic resonance imaging results. The levels of SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α in the two groups were analyzed. The serum concentrations of SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α in newborns with different severity of ventricular hemorrhage were observed, and the levels of SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α in those with different severity of white matter brain injury were compared.

RESULTS

The levels of SBDP145, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α were significantly higher in the preterm combined brain injury group than in the preterm group, and melatonin levels were significantly lower than in the preterm group(P < 0.05). The levels of SBDP145, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α were higher in the moderate to severe group and melatonin levels were lower in the mild group of newborns with ventricular hemorrhage (P < 0.05). The levels of SBDP145, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α were higher in the moderate-severe group and melatonin levels were lower in the mild group in newborns with cerebral white matter injury (P < 0.05). The independent variables were SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1, HIF-1α, and the dependent variable was the prognosis of neonates with brain injury. Univariate logistic regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed. The results showed that the influencing factors of newborns with brain injury were SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1, HIF-1α.

CONCLUSION

The levels of SBDP145, melatonin, sLOX-1, HMGB1 and HIF-1α were highly expressed in preterm newborns with brain injury, and the levels were higher when the condition of the newborns was more severe. These findings suggest the potential clinical utility of these biomarkers in predicting and monitoring brain injury in preterm infants, which could aid in early intervention and improve long-term outcomes.

Gender-specific association of multiple risk factors with neonatal moderate or severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) leads to different degrees of neurological sequelae. The incidence of HIE is relatively high, and the causal pathways leading to HIE are still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with HIE comparing differences between genders.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 196 neonates diagnosed with HIE was conducted. Based on the severity of clinical findings, HIE was classified as mild, moderate or severe. For mild HIE, the outcomes were relatively less severe, whereas moderate to severe HIE could suffer serious consequences, including death, cerebral palsy, epilepsy. T-test, chi-square test and logistic regression were used to analyze data.

RESULTS

Among the 196 neonatal HIE, 39 (19.9%) had mild HIE,157 (80.1%) had moderate or severe HIE. The logistic regression analysis showed that gender was a specific stratified characteristic of moderate or severe HIE. In the male neonates group, emergency cesarean section, abnormal labor stage and amniotic fluid contamination were associated with an increased risk of moderate or severe HIE, where the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were 4.378 (95% confidence intervals (CI):2.263-6.382), 2.827 (95% CI:1.743-5.196) and 2.653 (95%CI:1.645-3.972), respectively. As expected, a significant additive effect was found in the interactions between emergency cesarean section and abnormal labor stage, as well as between emergency cesarean section and amniotic fluid contamination, where the relative excess risk of interaction was 2.315(95%CI:1.573-3.652) and 1.896(95%CI: 1.337-3.861) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Emergency cesarean section, abnormal labor stage and amniotic fluid contamination were risk factors of moderate or severe HIE in neonates, and the associations were significantly correlated with male gender. Notably, coinciding incidences of emergency cesarean section with abnormal labor stage, or emergency cesarean section with amniotic fluid contamination were possibly synergistic in increasing the risk of moderate or severe HIE. These findings may assist clinicians in strengthening their awareness on risks affecting HIE and help reduce the incidence of moderate or severe HIE in clinical practice.

A nationwide survey on the management of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome: insights from the MUNICH survey in 394 Chinese hospitals

BACKGROUND

At present, preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in China present higher mortality and morbidity rates than those in high-income countries. The aim of this nationwide survey was to assess the clinical management of RDS in China.

METHODS

A nationwide cross-sectional survey to assess adherence to RDS management recommendations was performed. One neonatologist per hospital was randomly selected. The primary outcome was the key care of RDS management.

RESULTS

Among the 394 participating hospitals, 88·3% were birthing centres. The number of doctors and nurses per bed were 0·27 and 0·72, respectively. Antenatal corticosteroids (any dose) were administered to 90% of the women at risk of preterm birth at < 34 weeks of gestation (90·0% inborn vs. 50·0% outborn, p < 0·001). The median fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) for initial resuscitation was 0·30 for babies born at ≤ 32 weeks of gestation and 0·25 for those born at > 32 weeks. T-piece resuscitators were available in 77·8% of delivery rooms (DRs) (tertiary hospitals: 82·5% vs. secondary hospitals: 63·0%, p < 0·001). Surfactant was used in 51·6% of the DRs. Less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) was used in 49·7% of the hospitals (tertiary hospitals: 55·3% vs. secondary hospitals: 31·5%, p < 0·001). Primary non-invasive ventilation was initiated in approximately 80·0% of the patients. High-frequency oscillation ventilation was primarily reserved for rescue after conventional mechanical ventilation (MV) failure. Caffeine was routinely used during MV in 59·1% of the hospitals. Bedside lung ultrasonography was performed in 54·3% of the health facilities (tertiary hospitals: 61·6% vs. secondary hospitals: 30·4%, p < 0·001). Qualified breast milk banks and Family Integrated Care (FICare) were present in 30·2% and 63·7% of the hospitals, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant disparities in resource availability and guidelines adherence were evident across hospitals. Future strategies should address DR facilities and medication access, technical training, staff allocation, and ancillary facility development for a better management of RDS patients in China.

Sex- and gender-based medicine in pediatric nutrition

Consistent evidence increasingly highlights the significance of integrating sex and gender medicine to ensure a precision approach according to individual patient needs. Gender discrepancies emerge across various areas, even from pediatric age. The importance of recognizing these differences in pediatric nutrition is critical for the development of targeted nutritional strategies and interventions, particularly in cases of associated pathologies, including obesity, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, eating disorders, and inflammatory bowel disease. The review highlights the biological and sociocultural factors that contribute to different nutritional needs and health outcomes in male and female children. By examining current evidence, we underscore the necessity for precision medicine approaches in pediatric care that consider these sex- and gender-based differences. Moreover, differences in dietary requirements and dietary patterns between males and females are evident, underscoring the need for precise nutrition strategies for a more accurate management of children and adolescents. This approach is essential for improving clinical outcomes and promoting equitable healthcare practices. This review aims to provide an overview of nutrition-related medical conditions exhibiting sex- and gender-specific discrepancies, which might lead to distinct outcomes requiring unique management and prevention strategies. Future research and public health initiatives should address these differences in designing effective lifestyle education programs and nutrition interventions targeting both children and adolescents.

Integrated prenatal and postnatal management for neonates with transposition of the great arteries: thirteen-year experience at a single center

BACKGROUND

Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart defect in neonates but with low prenatal detection rate. This study sought to review the prenatal diagnosis, associated abnormalities, and mid-term postnatal outcomes of fetuses with TGA and investigate the integrated prenatal and postnatal management for TGA neonates.

METHODS

A total of 134 infants prenatally diagnosed with TGA in Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, China, from January 2009 to December 2022 were included in the study. The prenatal ultrasound data and neonatal records were reviewed to assess the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate logistic and Cox analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with prognosis in such individuals.

RESULTS

The population originated from 40 cities in 10 provinces in China, with integrated antenatal and postnatal management rate reaching 94.0% (126/134) and a high accuracy rate (99.3%) of prenatal primary diagnosis. The median period of follow-up was 1.6 [interquartile range (IQR) 0.1-4.3] years. There were 3 (2.2%) postnatal deaths, 118 (88.1%) patients undergoing arterial switch operation (ASO), 3 (2.2%) undergoing Rastelli operations and 5 (3.7%) doing stage operations. Of 118 patients receiving ASO, the major morbidity occurred in 64 patients (54.2%), and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction (RVOTO) in 31 (26.3%). In the multivariate logistic analysis, gestational ages at birth (OR = 0.953, 95% CI 0.910-0.991; p = 0.025) and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (OR = 1.010, 95% CI 1.000-1.030; p = 0.038) were identified as independent risk factors associated with major morbidity. In the Cox multivariate analysis, aortic cross-clamping time (HR = 1.030, 95% CI 1.000-1.050; p = 0.017) was identified as independent risk factor associated with RVOTO.

CONCLUSION

Earlier gestational ages at birth and longer CPB time are significantly associated with increased morbidity. Integrated prenatal and postnatal management is recommended for patients with prenatal diagnosis of TGA.

The interplay between maternal employment dynamics and trends in breastfeeding practices over the past decade

BACKGROUND

Working mothers are in a situation where they have to manage both their job and maternal roles simultaneously. We aim to show the relationship between mothers' breastfeeding behavior and working status, as well as the effect of their working conditions on the continuation of breastfeeding.

METHODS

This study examined 3557 (weighted 3490) child-mother pairs from Turkey's Demographic Health Survey data in 2008, 2013, and 2018 with a complex sample multiple logistic regression analysis to explore the relationship between breastfeeding and maternal employment.

RESULTS

In our study, 35.5% of the mothers had never worked, 18.6% were still working, and 45.9% had worked in the past but were not currently working. When breastfeeding percentages were examined based on maternal working status, mothers who worked in 2008 had significantly lower breastfeeding percentages than those who had never worked or had worked previously but not currently. In both 2013 and 2018, after legal regulations, maternal employment didn't affect breastfeeding. After adjusting for confounding factors, maternal employment in the industry sector had lower breastfeeding percentages [AOR:0.06 (95% CI: 0.01-0.48)] than those working in agriculture.

CONCLUSION

It seems that adhering to legal regulations such as paid maternity leave and lactation leave can promote breastfeeding. It is necessary to raise awareness of mothers working in the industry about the continuation of breastfeeding and to monitor their legal rights.

Early or delayed cord clamping during transition of term newborns: does it make any difference in cerebral tissue oxygenation?

BACKGROUND

According to the World Health Organization's recommendation, delayed cord clamping in term newborns can have various benefits. Cochrane metaanalyses reported no differences for mortality and early neonatal morbidity although a limited number of studies investigated long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. The aim of our study is to compare the postnatal cerebral tissue oxygenation values in babies with early versus delayed cord clamping born after elective cesarean section.

METHODS

In this study, a total of 80 term newborns delivered by elective cesarean section were included. Infants were randomly grouped as early (clamped within 15 s, n:40) and delayed cord clamping (at the 60th second, n:40) groups. Peripheral arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate were measured by pulse oximetry while regional oxygen saturation of the brain (rSO2) was measured with near-infrared spectrometer. Fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE) was calculated for every minute between the 3rd and 15th minute after birth. (FTOE = pulse oximetry value-rSO2/pulse oximetry value). The measurements were compared for both groups.

RESULTS

The demographical characteristics, SpO2 levels (except postnatal 6th, 8th, and 14th minutes favoring DCC p < 0.05), heart rates and umbilical cord blood gas values were not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05). rSO2 values were significantly higher while FTOE values were significantly lower for every minute between the 3rd and 15th minutes after birth in the delayed cord clamping group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed a significant increase in cerebral rsO2 values and a decrease in FTOE values in the delayed cord clamping (DCC) group, indicating a positive impact on cerebral oxygenation and hemodynamics. Furthermore, the DCC group exhibited a higher proportion of infants with cerebral rSO2 levels above the 90th percentile. This higher proportion, along with a lower of those with such parameter below the 10th percentile, suggest that DCC may lead to the targeted/optimal cerebral oxygenetaion of these babies. As a result, we recommend measuring cerebral oxygenation, in addition to peripheral SpO2, for infants experiencing perinatal hypoxia and receiving supplemental oxygen.

Association of low vitamin D level and full-term early-onset neonatal sepsis; a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Sepsis is one of the main causes of death in newborns worldwide. Vitamin D levels during fetal and neonatal periods have a significant role in the development of the immunological system. The study aims to evaluate the association between vitamin D levels and the risk of early-onset neonatal sepsis in full-term neonates in a developing country.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted at the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) of Kasr Alainy Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. The study was composed of two groups; the sepsis group involved full-term neonates appropriate for gestational age with sepsis-related clinical signs. The control group included newborns with no signs of clinical/laboratory infection within 72 h of life. Blood samples were collected on admission during the first three days of life in both groups for the measurement of 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, Complete Blood Count (CBC), C reactive protein (CRP), and blood culture.

RESULTS

Forty-five newborns with clinical and laboratory findings of early-onset neonatal sepsis within 72 h of life were enrolled, and the control group included forty-five newborns with no evidence of sepsis. Vitamin D levels in the sepsis group were significantly lower than in the control group. Apgar score at the first minute was significantly lower in the sepsis group. 57.8% of neonates with sepsis had positive blood cultures. There was a statistical difference between deficient, insufficient, and sufficient vitamin D levels regarding the duration of the NICU stay, which was longer in neonates with deficient vitamin D levels. CRP was significantly higher in neonates with deficient vitamin D levels. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for serum vitamin D in the prediction of neonatal sepsis was 0.76 at a cutoff < 19.7(ng/ml).

CONCLUSION

In the current study, full-term newborns with EOS had considerably lower vitamin D levels than healthy controls. Through appropriate vitamin supplementation of the mothers during pregnancy, it could be possible to ensure adequate vitamin D levels for newborns. This may contribute to the reduction of the risk of EOS, together with the other well-known preventive measures (i.e. breastfeeding and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis).

Report and follow-up on two new patients with congenital mesoblastic nephroma

BACKGROUND

Tumors are rare in neonatal age. Congenital mesoblastic nephroma (CMN) is a usually benign renal tumor observed at birth, or in the first months of life. It may also be identified prenatally and associated with polyhydramnios leading to preterm delivery. Effective treatment is surgical in most cases, consisting in total nephrectomy. In literature, very few studies report on the neonatal management of such a rare disease, and even less are those describing its uncommon complications.

CASES PRESENTATION

We report on two single-center newborns affected with CMN. The first patient is a preterm female baby, born at 30+ 1 weeks of gestation (WG) due to premature labor, with prenatal (25 WG) identification of an intra-abdominal fetal mass associated with polyhydramnios. Once obtained the clinical stability, weight gain, instrumental (computed tomography, CT, showing a 4.8 × 3.3 cm left renal neoformation) and histological/molecular characterization of the lesion (renal needle biopsy picture of classic CMN with ETV6-NTRK3 translocation), a left nephrectomy was performed at 5 weeks of chronological age. The following clinical course was complicated by intestinal obstruction due to bowel adherences formation, then by an enterocutaneous fistula, requiring multiple surgical approaches including transitory ileo- and colostomy, before the conclusive anastomoses intervention. The second patient is a 17-day-old male term baby, coming to our observation due to postnatal evidence of palpable left abdominal mass (soon defined through CT, showing a 7.5 × 6.5 cm neoformation in the left renal lodge), feeding difficulties and poor weight gain. An intravenous diuretic treatment was needed due to the developed hypertension and hypercalcemia, which regressed after the nephrectomy (histological diagnosis of cellular CMN with ETV6-NTRK3 fusion) performed at day 26. In neither case was chemotherapy added. Both patients have been included in multidisciplinary follow-up, they presently show regular growth and neuromotor development, normal renal function and no local/systemic recurrences or other gastrointestinal/urinary disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding of a fetal abdominal mass should prompt suspicion of CMN, especially if it is associated with polyhydramnios; it should also alert obstetricians and neonatologists to the risk of preterm delivery. Although being a usually benign condition, CMN may be associated with neonatal systemic-metabolic or postoperative complications. High-level surgical expertise, careful neonatological intensive care and histopathological/cytogenetic-molecular definition are the cornerstones for the optimal management of patients. This should also include an individualized follow-up, oriented to the early detection of any possible recurrences or associated anomalies and to a better quality of life of children and their families.

Congenital syphilis in a preterm newborn with gastrointestinal disorders and postnatal growth restriction

BACKGROUND

Congenital syphilis (CS) depends on the placental transmission of Treponema pallidum (TP) spirochetes from an infected mother to fetus during pregnancy. It shows a wide clinical variability with cutaneous and visceral manifestations, including stillbirths, neonatal death, and asymptomatic cases. Preterm infants with CS may have more severe features of disease than the term ones, due to the combined pathogenic effect of both CS and prematurity.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report on a female preterm (32⁺⁶ weeks of gestation) newborn showing most of the typical CS manifestations, in addition to gastrointestinal disorders including feeding difficulties, colon stenosis and malabsorption leading to postnatal growth restriction. The mother resulted positive at the syphilis screening test of the first trimester of pregnancy, but she did not undergo any treatment. At birth, our newborn was VDRL positive (antibody titer four times higher compared to the mother), and she was treated with intravenous benzathine benzylpenicillin G for 10 days (50,000 IU/Kg three times per day). Poor tolerance to enteral nutrition (abdominal distension, increased biliary type gastric secretions) was observed. A barium enema X-Ray identified a colon stenosis within the descending tract. However, the poor general conditions due to a concurrent fungal sepsis did not allow to perform any surgical procedure, and a conservative approach with total parenteral nutrition was started. The following evolution was marked by difficulties in enteral feeding including refusal of food and vomiting, to which also contributed the neurological abnormalities related to a perinatal asphyxia, and the affective deprivation for the physical absence of the mother during hospitalization. At 5 months of age, after the introduction of an amino acid-based formula (Neocate LCP Nutricia ®), an improvement of enteral feeding was observed, with no further and significantly decreased episodes of abdominal distension and vomiting respectively, and regular stool emission. A psychological support offered to the family allowed a more stable bond between the mother and her baby, thus providing a significant additional benefit to food tolerance and growth. She was discharged at 5 months of age, and included in a multidisciplinary follow-up. She at present shows global growth delay, and normal development apart from mildly increased tone of lower limbs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our report highlights less common clinical CS manifestations like gastrointestinal disorders including feeding difficulties, colon stenosis and malabsorption leading to postnatal growth delay. Moreover, it underlines how prematurity may worsen the clinical evolution of such congenital infection, due to the additional pathogenic effect of possible associated diseases and/or conditions like sepsis, hypoxic/ischemic injury, or use of drugs. CS may be observed also in high-income countries, with high rates of antenatal screening and availability of prenatal treatment. A multidisciplinary network must be guaranteed to the affected subjects, to ensure adequate care and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

The social role of pediatrics in the past and present times

Pediatrics and society are closely related. This link is as old as the history of Pediatrics, and dates to the second half of the eighteenth century. The vocation of the first European pediatric schools, indeed, was clinical and scientific, as well as social. The founding fathers of Pediatrics were scientists of great talent, and many of them benefactors and philanthropists. They spent their lives assisting the suffering childhood, and became promoters and organizers of social securities for the poorest and most vulnerable categories. The attention to the problems of abandonment was closely linked to study, prevention, and treatment of pathologies (especially infectious, deficiency and neurological ones). The profile and activity of pediatricians grew in the following decades after the birth of the first pediatric schools. The University institutions contributed to provide a further impulse to childcare as well as cultural authority, also thanks to the foundation of the first chairs and scientific journals of Pediatrics. The relevance and prestige of the studies performed rapidly spread throughout Europe, and also reached our country, contributing to a progressive and relevant improvement in the quality of children's care, and in the meantime to the decrease of neonatal and infant mortality rates.Today's pediatricians, as in the past, must spend his efforts to face the needs of children and their families, be their social receptor, interpreter if necessary, and credible and authoritative interlocutor beside institutions. The current coronavirus pandemic dramatically exposed social inequalities and inequities. In this new scenario, the pediatrician's role of defender of all children becomes even more necessary and indispensable. Here we trace the historical steps which led to the birth and development of pediatrics, as independent medical discipline with ethical and social vocation. Its rise within the University institutions is analyzed, as well as the contribution of the greatest European and Italian masters. Finally, the role of today's pediatrician is described, his responsibilities also in dealing with new health critical issues, related to the biological, cultural, and psychological changes of the patients of present days. He must have holistic competences, to effectively take care of all children. In addition, he must socially act to guarantee the best possible context for the well-being of the child.

Neonatal ten-year retrospective study on neural tube defects in a second level University Hospital

BACKGROUND

Aim of this retrospective study was to describe clinical characteristics, diagnostic work-up, management and follow-up of newborns with neural tube defects (NTDs), admitted to the Mother and Child Department of the University Hospital of Palermo, in a ten years period.

METHODS

The medical records of 7 newborns (5 males and 2 females) admitted, over a 10-year period from January 2010 to March 2020, to our Department on the first day of life were reviewed. Analyzed data were related to familiar and/or maternal risk factors (consanguinity, maternal preexisting and/or gestational diseases, exposure to teratogen/infectious agents, lack of preconception folic acid supplement), demographic (ethnicity/origin, residence) and clinical features (eventual use of assisted reproduction techniques, prenatal diagnosis, gestational age, fetal presentation, type of delivery, birth weight, preoperative imaging, antibiotics and analgesics use, description of the surgery intervention, length of hospital stay, comorbidities, complications), and follow-up.

RESULTS

In our sample we observed a wide spectrum of NTDs: 3 newborns had open NTDs, namely myelomeningocele (2 lumbosacral, one of which associated with extradural lipoma, and 1 sacral), and 4 closed ones, including 2 with meningocele (occipital), 1 filar lipoma associated with dermal sinus, and 1 terminal myelocystocele. Our patients were discharged between 8 and 22 days of life. The neurodevelopmental follow-up showed a favorable outcome for 4 of the 7 patients, and the appearance over time of neurological impairment (motor and/or autonomic) in the newborns with open NTDs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study describes familiar and/or maternal risk factors and demographic and clinical features of a single-center series of newborns with NTDs. It may provide a further outline of the actual phenotypic spectrum of these malformations, and new insights into epidemiological aspects and comprehensive management of the patients, including diagnostic work-up and follow-up evaluations.

Essential newborn care utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Globally, newborn death accounted for 46% of under-five deaths and more than 80% of newborn deaths are the result of preventable and treatable conditions. Findings on the prevalence and associated factors of essential newborn care utilization are highly variable and inconsistent across Ethiopia. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of essential newborn care utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods

The international databases accessed included MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Sciences, Scopus, and Grey literature databases, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Cochrane library were scientifically explored. We considered all primary studies reporting the prevalence of essential newborn care utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia. We retrieved all necessary data by using a standardized data extraction format spreadsheet. STATA 14 statistical software was used to analyze the data and Cochrane Q test statistics and I² test was used to assess the heterogeneity between the studies. There significant heterogeneity between the studies so a random effect model was employed.

Results

The pooled estimate of essential newborn care utilization from 11 studies in Ethiopia was 48.77% (95% CI: 27.89, 69.65). Residence [OR = 2.50 (95% CI: 1.64, 3.88)], Postnatal care [OR = 5.53, 95% CI = (3.02, 10.13], counseling during pregnancy and delivery [OR = 4.39, 95% CI = (2.99, 6.45], antenatal care follows up (OR = 6.84; 95% CI: 1.15, 4.70) and maternal educational status [OR = 1.63 (95% CI: 1.12, 2.37)] were identified as associated factors of essential newborn care utilization.

Conclusion

Based on the current study essential newborn care utilization in Ethiopia was significantly low in comparison with the current global recommendation on essential newborn care utilization. Place of residence, Postnatal care, counseling during pregnancy and delivery, antenatal care follow up, and maternal educational status were associated risk factors. Therefore, on the basis of the results, it is suggested that special attention should be given to attempts to ensure that education should focus on women during ante and postnatal follow-up, counseling during pregnancy and delivery, as well as rural and illiterate mothers. Finally, appropriate newborn services at health facilities and raising mother’s level of awareness about newborn care practices are imperative in addressing the gaps in essential newborn care utilization in Ethiopia.