Mfuh Anita Yafeh
Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
Title: Prevalence and risk factors of neonatal jaundice in special care baby unit of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria , Nigeria
Biography
Biography: Mfuh Anita Yafeh
Abstract
Neonatal jaundice is a very common condition worldwide occurring in up to 60% of term and 80% of preterm newborns in the first week of life. It`s incidence varies with geography. It is a leading cause of hospitalization in the first week of life worldwide. If inappropriately managed, it may result in significant bilirubin-induced mortality and disability. The study seek to determine the prevalence and risk factors of neonatal jaundice in Special Care Baby Unit of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria , Nigeria. The study aimed at determining the number of neonates diagnosed with jaundice, the sex distribution, type of jaundice diagnosed, risk factors and treatment modalities. An ex-post facto survey design with in-depth interviews were used to collct data. Secondary data was obtained from the medical record department of the hospital and nurses in the Special Care Baby Unit responded to the interviews.. Data obtained showed that 480 neonates were diagnosed with jaundice out of 1470 neonates admitted with the highest prevalence in 2017. Male neonates (64%) sufferd jaundice more than females. Physiological jandice was the most prevalent type of jaundice. The major treatment rendered was drugs/phototherpay (65%). Some factors responsible for the increase were ; poor breastfeeding practice by mothers, sepsis, ABO incompatability among others. It was recommended that mothers be educated on the causes of neonatal jaundice, early breastfeeding practice, early recognision of signs of jaundice and present to the hospital on time since most of the women in the area of study deliver at home and usually present with the babies late to the hospital. There is also need for a bigger and well established, organized and functional unit (SCBU) in the hospital that can cater for the increased number of neonates suffering from jaundice. More qualified health personnels should be employed in the unit to cater for the large number of neonates diagnosed with jaundice.