ABSTRACT
To determine the incidence and micro-organisms responsible for neonatal nosocomial infection and to identify the most relevant risk factors for sepsis. All neonates admitted to the Intensive care unit [ICU] during the period of one year study, between April 2002 and March 2003, were included in the study. They were followed up until discharge or death. Only infections developing after 48 hours from admission to the unit were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify which factors were independently associated with blood stream infections. The incidence of nosocomial bloodstream infections [NBSI] was 9.1%. The major organisms were Enterobacter [39.3%] coagulase-ve staphylococci [CONS] [32.1%], while Klebseilla and E. coli constituted 17.9% and 10.7% respectively. The associated mortality from infection represented 25.8% of all deaths. The following factors were associated with sepsis: prematurity, prolonged stay in the unit, presence of intravascular catheter, and mechanical ventilation. The recognition of risk factors for nosocomial infections and responsible organisms is an important tool for identification and development of intervention to minimize the risks in NICU