A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME AMONG NEONATES IN NICU IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Neethu J.*, Clinton Baby, Avinash M., Anjusha A. K. and Akhil Babu

ABSTRACT

Neonatal health is an area that needs primary and optimal care. Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is a major cause of neonatal respiratory failure and death. The aim of our study is to assess the risk factors and prescription pattern for Respiratory Distress Syndrome in neonates. Our study was conducted in 125 patients admitted in NICU with respiratory distress syndrome whose parents who were willing to participate their baby in the study. The study excluded patients with congenital abnormalities. The data was collected and recorded in specially designed preform. The data analysis revealed that male patients (72%) were mostly reported with RDS. The mostly occurred risk factor for RDS is prematurity (88%). Supplemental oxygen, CPAP therapy, antibiotics & surfactant therapy were given to respective patients. The antibiotics given were categorized into Ampicillin+Gentamycin (1st line agent), Piperacillin+Tazobactam (2nd line agent), Meropenem+Colistin (3rd line agent). Preventive measures of risk factors for RDS on expectant mothers could be implemented to improve neonatal health.

Keywords: Respiratory distress syndrome, NICU, Risk factors, prescribing pattern.