DETERMINANATS OF BIRTH ASPHYXIA AND ITS MANAGEMENT AMONG NEONATES ADMITTED TO NEONATAL CARE UNIT AT KISUMU COUNTY HOSPITAL REFERRAL,

Abstract

Birth asphyxia remains a significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality globally, with a notable burden in Kenya. This study aimed to identify the determinants of birth asphyxia in term babies in KCH, Kenya and explore effective management strategies. A comprehensive review of literature was conducted, focusing on epidemiology studies, risk factors, and management protocols for birth asphyxia. Determinants such as prolonged labor, maternal infections, inadequate prenatal care, and limited access to skilled birth attendance were identified as contributing factors. Effective management strategies include prompt resuscitation at birth, maintaining thermoregulation and early detection and treatment of associated complications such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Additionally, community-based interventions targeting prenatal education and improving access to quality maternal healthcare services were essential in reducing the incidence of birth asphyxia in Kenya. This study dealt with importance of multifaceted approach encompassing both preventive measures and timely intervention to mitigate the burden of birth asphyxia and improve neonatal outcomes in KCH, Kenya. The study aimed in identifying and analyzing the determinants of birth asphyxia and its management in term babies in NCU in KCH, focusing on maternal, neonatal and healthcare related factors which will help in improving healthcare of term babies with birth asphyxia. Methodology: The study adopted cross-sectional study design and consisted of 40 respondents selected randomly. A structured questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of mothers who gave birth in KCH. Data collected was analyzed and reported Results; The maximum age was 49 years while the minimum was 15 years. A higher proportion of 28 (70%) of the mothers were married. This was followed by those who were single10 (25%) while the rest were widowed 2(5%). Fifty-two-point nine percent 18(45%) of the mothers who attended ANC had secondary or tertiary level of education. 16(40%) of mothers were with none or primary education (Figure 4.1). The mothers who sought delivery services 17(42.5%) were not employed. This included a p2roportion of 15(37.5%) who were housewives. During the study period, 40 cases of new born babies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Out of these 40, male neonates were (53.3%) and females were 46.7%). With regard to birth weight, (75.8%) of the neonates weighted 2600-3500 gms and (24.2%) of the neonates’ weight 1500-2500gms. There was a higher proportion of the newborns whose birth ages were term (91.0%) compared those who were post-term (9.0%). Over (70.9%) of the new born had no birth asphyxia while the rest of (29.1%) had asphyxia. Conclusion; The study has shown that there are various determinants that leads to birth asphyxia in term babies born in KCRH which explains the increase in number of babies born with birth asphyxia the results obtained will be of a major help in provision of management and prevention of birth asphyxia.