Improved efficiency in the management of newborns with infectious risk factors by the sepsis risk calculator and clinical observation

Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficiency of the sepsis risk calculator and the serial clinical observation in the management of late preterm and term newborns with infectious risk factors. Method Single-center, observational, two-phase cohort study comparing the rates of neonates born ≥35 weeks' gestation, ≥2000 g birthweight, and without major congenital anomalies, who were screened and/or received antibiotics for early-onset neonatal sepsis risk at our center during two periods, before (January/2018-June/2019) and after (July/2019-December/2020) the implementation of the sepsis risk calculator. Results A total of 1796 (Period 1) and 1867 (Period 2) patients with infectious risk factors were included. During the second period, tests to rule out sepsis were reduced by 34.0 % (RR, 95 %CI): 0.66 (0.61, 0.71), blood cultures by 13.1 %: 0.87 (0.77, 0.98), hospital admissions by 13.5 %: 0.86 (0.76, 0.98) and antibiotic administration by 45.9 %: 0.54 (0.47, 0.63). Three cases of early-onset neonatal sepsis occurred in the first period and two in the second. Clinical serial evaluation would have detected all true cases. Conclusions The implementation of a sepsis risk calculator in the management of newborns ≥35 weeks GA, ≥2000 g birthweight, without major congenital anomalies, with infectious risk factors is safe and adequate to reduce laboratory tests, blood cultures, hospital admissions, and antibiotics administration. Serial clinical observation, in addition, could be instrumental to achieve or even improve this goal.

Prevalence of early neonatal sepsis and positive maternal culture for group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of early neonatal sepsis in pregnant women with a positive culture for group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus in a middle-income city in Southeastern Brazil. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted, involving singleton low- and high-risk pregnancies in whom group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus cultures were evaluated between 35 and 37 weeks of gestation using vaginal and anal swabs. A specific medium (Todd-Hewitt) was used for culturing. The pregnant women were divided into two groups based on positive (n==201) and negative (n==420) cultures for group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus. RESULTS: The maternal colonization rate by group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus was 32.3%. The prevalence of early neonatal sepsis was 1.0% (2/201) among patients with a positive group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus culture and 1.9% (8/420) among patients with a negative culture. Among the patients who underwent adequate prophylaxis, crystalline penicillin G was used in 51.9% (54/104), followed by cefazolin in 43.3% (45/104), ampicillin in 3.8% (4/104), and clindamycin in 1.0% (1/104). A model that included prematurity (p==0.001) proved to be an independent risk predictor of early neonatal sepsis [χ2 (1)==15.0, odds ratio: 16.9, 95% confidence interval: 4.7-61.6, p<0.001, Nagelkerke R2==0.157]. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of a positive culture for group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus was high. However, the prevalence of early neonatal sepsis was low in pregnant women with both positive and negative group B beta-hemolytic Streptococcus cultures and in pregnant women with a positive culture who underwent both adequate and inadequate antibiotic prophylaxis. Prematurity proved to be an independent predictor of early neonatal sepsis, considering the entire study population.

Early-onset neonatal sepsis as a risk factor for peri-intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants / Sepse precoce como fator de risco para hemorragia peri-intraventricular em prematuros

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess early-onset sepsis as a risk factor of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation and admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Methods: This retrospective cohort study included premature patients born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation who were admitted to the NICU of a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, and born from January 2017 to July 2021. Data were collected from patients' medical records. Early-onset sepsis was measured according to the presence or absence of diagnosis within the first 72 hours of life, whereas the outcome, peri-intraventricular hemorrhage, was described as the presence or absence of hemorrhage, regardless of its grade. Results: Hazard ratios were calculated using Cox regression models. A total of 487 patients were included in the study, of which 169 (34.7%) had some degree of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage. Early-onset sepsis was present in 41.6% of the cases of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage, which revealed a significant association between these variables, with increased risk of the outcome in the presence of sepsis. In the final multivariate model, the hazard ratio for early-onset sepsis was 1.52 (95% confidence interval 1.01-2.27). Conclusion: Early-onset sepsis and the use of surfactants showed to increase the occurrence of the outcome in premature children born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation. Meanwhile, factors such as antenatal corticosteroids and gestational age closer to 34 weeks' gestations were found to reduce the risk of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a sepse precoce como fator de risco para hemorragia peri-intraventricular (HPIV) em prematuros com 34 semanas ou menos, admitidos em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) Neonatal. Métodos: Este estudo de coorte retrospectivo incluiu pacientes prematuros com 34 semanas ou menos, que receberam alta da UTI Neonatal de hospital terciário, no sul do Brasil, nascidos no período de janeiro de 2017 a julho de 2021. Os dados foram coletados por meio dos prontuários desses pacientes. A sepse precoce foi mensurada conforme a presença ou a ausência do diagnóstico nas primeiras 72 horas de vida. Já o desfecho, hemorragia peri-intraventricular, foi descrito conforme a presença ou ausência da hemorragia, independentemente do grau. Resultados: Hazard ratios (HR) foram calculados por meio de modelos de regressão de Cox. Foram incluídos no estudo 487 pacientes. Destes, 169 (34,7%) apresentaram algum grau de hemorragia peri-intraventricular. A sepse precoce esteve presente em 41,6% dos casos de hemorragia peri-intraventricular e apresentou associação significativa, elevando o risco do desfecho quando presente. No modelo multivariável final, o HR para a sepse precoce foi de 1,52 (intervalo de confiança de 95% — IC95% 1,01-2,27). Conclusão: Sepse precoce e uso de surfactante demonstraram aumentar a ocorrência do desfecho em crianças prematuras até 34 semanas, enquanto fatores como corticoide antenatal e idades gestacionais mais próximas a 34 semanas mostraram reduzir o risco de ocorrência hemorragia peri-intraventricular.

Prevalencia de colonización rectovaginal por Streptococcus agalactiae en mujeres gestantes atendidas en un hospital de segundo nivel en Honduras

Introducción. Streptococcus agalactiae, conocido actualmente como estreptococo del grupo B (EGB), es el principal microorganismo que coloniza el tracto genitourinario en pacientes gestantes, llegando a causar consecuencias graves en el neonato, como sepsis neonatal, neumonía y meningitis. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de EGB en mujeres gestantes del Hospital Nacional Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas, en Honduras. Materiales y métodos. Estudio descriptivo, prospectivo, transversal. Se utilizó un muestreo por conveniencia, se enroló un total de 143 gestantes entre las 34 y 40 semanas de gestación atendidas en el servicio de ginecología y obstetricia del Hospital Nacional Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas, durante enero de 2020 a junio del 2021. Los cultivos se prepararon de acuerdo con la metodología recomendada por los Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, agregándose el agar chromID Strepto B. Se empleó estadística descriptiva para el análisis. Resultados. La edad promedio de las gestantes fue 26 ± 7,4 años. La prevalencia de EGB en la población fue del 3,5%, encontrando 5 casos positivos. Conclusión. La prevalencia de colonización por EGB en mujeres embarazadas es variable y puede no estar asociada a factores de riesgo para ser colonizada, resultando en complicaciones sanitarias neonatales y maternas. Ello pone de manifiesto la necesidad de búsqueda activa de estreptococos del grupo B en las gestantes.

Introduction: Streptococcus agalactiae, currently known as group B streptococcus (GBS) is the main microorganism that colonizes the genitourinary tract in pregnant women, causing serious consequences in the neonate, such as neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis. Objective: To determine the prevalence of GBS in pregnant women at the Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas National Hospital in Honduras. Materials and methods: Descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional study. A total of 143 pregnant women between 34-40 weeks of gestation attended at the gynecology and obstetrics service of the Dr. Mario Catarino Rivas National Hospital in Honduras from January 2020 to June 2021 were enrolled. Cultures were developed following the methodology recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Strepto B chromID agar was added. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Results: The mean age of the pregnant women was 26 ± 7.4 years. The prevalence of GBS in the study population was 3.5%, with 5 positive cases. Conclusion: The prevalence of GBS colonization in pregnant women is variable and may not be associated with risk factors for colonization, resulting in neonatal and maternal health complications. This highlights the need for active search for group B Streptococcus in pregnant women.

Prevalencia de sepsis neonatal confirmada microbiológicamente en una maternidad de la Ciudad Autó noma de Buenos Aires / Prevalence of microbiologically confirmed neonatal sepsis at a maternity center in the City of Buenos Aires

Introducción. En neonatos internados es frecuente sospechar sepsis neonatal, pero solo en el 25 % al 30 % se confirma con cultivos positivos. La selección del esquema antibiótico basándose en la epidemiología local favorece el uso racional y minimiza sus efectos colaterales. Objetivo primario. Describir la prevalencia de sepsis precoz y tardía con rescate microbiológico y sus características clínicas. Población y método. Estudio transversal retrospectivo, realizado del 1 de enero de 2013 al 31 de diciembre de 2017, en una maternidad pública de Argentina, que incluyó todos los recién nacidos internados en la unidad con diagnóstico de sepsis precoz y tardía con rescate microbiológico, y aquellos reingresados dentro del mes de vida. Resultados. Ingresaron 3322 recién nacidos, 1296 evaluados por sospecha de sepsis precoz, cultivos positivos en 25 (1,9 %; tasa: 0,86 ‰). El 52 % eran menores de 33 semanas de edad gestacional. Microorganismos: Escherichia coli 5, Listeria monocytogenes 4, Streptococcus agalactiae (SGB) 3, Streptococcus pneumoniae 3. Sepsis tardía (tasa 8,73 ‰), el 68 % ocurridas en menores de 33 semanas. Microorganismos intrahospitalarios: Staphylococcus coagulasa negativos 115, Staphylococcus aureus 47, Escherichia coli 30, Cándida spp. 16, Enterococcus faecalis 13, Klebsiella pneumoniae 11 y Streptococcus agalactiae 10. En los reingresos: E. coli 11, S. aureus 12, SGB 3 y Haemophilus influenzae 3. Conclusiones. Se observa en el período estudiado una frecuencia de sepsis precoz similar a los reportes internacionales, con predominio de E. coli y L. monocytogenes. La tasa de sepsis tardía presentó una tendencia descendente en los años analizados, con predominio de los cocos grampositivos

Introduction. Neonatal sepsis is often suspected in hospitalized newborn infants, but only in 25­30% of cases it is confirmed via a positive culture. Selecting the antibiotics based on local epidemiology favors their rational use and minimizes their side effects. Primary objective. To describe the prevalence of early- and late-onset sepsis with microorganism isolation and their clinical characteristics. Population and method. Retrospective, cross-sectional study conducted between 01-01-2013 and 12-31-2017 in a public maternity center of Argentina in all hospitalized newborn infants with a diagnosis of early- and late-onset sepsis with microorganism isolation, and those re-admitted in their first month of life. Results. A total of 3322 newborn infants were admitted; 1296 were assessed for suspected early- onset sepsis; 25 had a positive culture (1.9%; rate: 0.86‰). Of these, 52% were born before 33 weeks of gestation. Microorganisms: Escherichia coli 5, Listeria monocytogenes 4, Streptococcus agalactiae (SGB) 3, Streptococcus pneumoniae 3. Also, 68% of late-onset sepsis cases (rate: 8.73‰) occurred in infants born before 33 weeks of gestation. Hospital-acquired microorganisms: coagulase-negative Staphylococcus 115, Staphylococcus aureus 47, Escherichia coli 30, Candida spp. 16, Enterococcus faecalis 13, Klebsiella pneumoniae 11, and Streptococcus agalactiae 10. In re-admissions: E. coli 11, S. aureus 12, SGB 3, and Haemophilus influenzae 3. Conclusions. During the study period, the frequency of early-onset sepsis was similar to international reports, with a predominance of E. coli and L. monocytogenes. The rate of late-onset sepsis showed a downward trend in the analyzed years, with a predominance of Gram-positive cocci.

Risk factors of acute kidney injury in very low birth weight infants in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract Objective Acute kidney injury (AKI) in the neonatal period is associated with worst outcomes as increased mortality and increased length of hospital stay. Very low birth weight (VLBW) newborns are at higher risk for developing several other conditions that are associated with worst outcomes. Understanding the risk factors for AKI may help to prevent this condition and improve neonatal care for this population. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 155 very low birth weight newborns admitted between 2015 and 2017. The authors compared the newborns who developed neonatal AKI with the non-AKI group and analyzed the main risk factors for developing AKI in the population. The authors also performed an analysis of the main outcomes defined as the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of stay, and death. Results From the cohort, a total of 61 (39.4%) patients had AKI. The main risk factors associated with Neonatal AKI were necrotizing enterocolitis (aOR 7.61 [1.69 - 34.37]; p = 0.008), neonatal sepsis (aOR 2.91 [1.17 - 7.24], p = 0.021), and hemodynamic instability (aOR 2.99 [1.35 - 6.64]; p = 0.007). Neonatal AKI was also associated with an increase in the duration of mechanical ventilation in 9.4 days (p = 0.026) and in an increase in mortality 4 times (p = 0.009), after adjusting for the other variables. Conclusion The present results highlight the importance of minimizing sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis, as well as the importance of identifying hemodynamic instability, to prevent AKI and diminish the burden of morbimortality in VLBW newborns.

Target product profiles for diagnosis of sepsis: Proposing a new approach for diagnostic innovation

Background & objectives: Sepsis, including neonatal sepsis, remains a prevalent cause of morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries such as India, representing 85 per cent of all sepsis-related deaths globally. Early diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment is challenging due to non-specific clinical manifestations and non-availability of rapid diagnostic tests. There is an urgent need for affordable diagnostics with fast turnaround time catering to the needs of end-users. Target product profiles (TPPs) have been found instrumental in developing ‘fit-for-use’ diagnostics, thus reducing the time taken to facilitate development and improving diagnosis. Hitherto, no such guidance or criteria has been defined for rapid diagnostics for sepsis/neonatal sepsis. We propose an innovative approach for developing the diagnostics for sepsis screening and diagnosis which can be utilized by diagnostic developers in the country. Methods: Three-round Delphi method, including two online surveys and one virtual consultation, was adopted to define criteria for minimum and optimum attributes of TPPs and build consensus on characteristics. Expert panel (n=23) included infectious disease physicians, public health specialists, clinical microbiologists, virologists, researchers/scientists and technology experts/innovators. Results: We present a three-component product profile for sepsis diagnosis, (i) screening with high sensitivity, (ii) detection of aetiological agent, and (iii) profiling of antimicrobial susceptibility/resistance, in adults and neonates with an option of testing different considerations. An agreement of >75 per cent was achieved for all TPP characteristics by Delphi. These TPPs are tailored to the Indian healthcare settings and can also be extrapolated to other resource-constraint and high-disease burden settings.

Conservative management of newborns with 35 weeks or more of gestational age at risk for early-onset sepsis: a Brazilian cohort study

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the conservative management of newborns born at ≥35 weeks of gestational age, at risk for early-onset neonatal sepsis (EOS). Methods: Retrospective, analytic cohort study (2016 to 2019), including newborns ≥35 weeks of gestational at risk of EOS, asymptomatic at birth, managed conservatively in full rooming-in: serial physical examination and clinical observation for at least 48 h. They were classified into three groups, according to the clinical course: asymptomatic (group A), symptomatic for other reasons (group B), and with sepsis (group C). Risk factors, clinical signs and differential diagnoses of sepsis, length of stay, and discharge conditions were evaluated. Results: The authors evaluated 769 asymptomatic newborns at risk of EOS. (mean birth weight 2999 ± 485 g and gestational age 37.6 ± 1.7 weeks, respectively) corresponding to 12.2% of rooming-in admissions. The most prevalent risk factors were colonization by Group B Streptococcus (29%), prolonged rupture membrane duration (21.9%) and preterm labor (21.4%). Most of all of them (53.9%) remained asymptomatic (group A). Group B corresponded for 45.3%, and the most common clinical signs were hypothermia (24.5%), tremors (8.7%) and vomiting (8%). Environmental dysthermia (50.7%), prematurity (20.0%), and feeding intolerance (15.7%) were common in Group B. Laboratory tests were performed in 3.5%. Five patients (one confirmed) comprised group C (0.8/1,000 live births). There were no deaths. The median length of stay was 64 h (IQR 50-93). Conclusion: The rate of clinical/confirmed EOS was low. Most of the symptomatic patients only needed clinical evaluation to rule out sepsis. Management was shown to be safe.

Sepsis neonatal: Diagnóstico y tratamiento

La sepsis neonatal es causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad. La OMS reporta que anualmente mueren 2,4 millones de bebés durante el primer mes de vida, siendo la sepsis neonatal una de las principales causas. El objetivo es actualizar en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de la sepsis neonatal. En esta investigación se realizó una revisión de la literatura para sintetizar hallazgos relevantes sobre sepsis neonatal, que se define como afección sistémica, caracterizada por cambios hemodinámicos y otras manifestaciones clínicas, como respuesta desregulada a la infección. La sepsis neonatal precoz se relaciona con factores de riesgo maternos y los microorganismos causantes son del tracto genitourinario materno, mientras que la tardía es causada por gérmenes intrahospitalarios, en neonatos con estancia hospitalaria prolongada y sometidos a procedimientos invasivos. Los signos y síntomas de sepsis neonatal son inespecíficos, lo que hace difícil su diagnóstico, se recomienda identificar factores de riesgo y evaluación clínica minuciosa. Los establecimientos de salud deben realizar vigilancia epidemiológica de gérmenes más frecuentes y sensibilidad antibiótica, para garantizar tratamiento antibiótico adecuado.

Neonatal sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. The WHO reports that 2.4 million babies die annually during the first month of life, with neonatal sepsis being one of the main causes. The objective is to update the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal sepsis. In this research, a review of the literature was carried out to synthesize relevant findings on neonatal sepsis, which is defined as a systemic condition, characterized by hemodynamic changes and other clinical manifestations, as a deregulated response to infection. Early-onset neonatal sepsis is related to maternal risk factors and the causative microorganisms are from the maternal genitourinary tract, while late-onset sepsis is caused by nosocomial germs, in neonates with prolonged hospital stay and subjected to invasive procedures. The signs and symptoms of neonatal sepsis are nonspecific, which makes its diagnosis difficult, it is recommended to identify risk factors and a thorough clinical evaluation. Health establishments must carry out epidemiological surveillance of the most frequent germs and antibiotic sensitivity, to guarantee adequate antibiotic treatment.

Clinical analysis of different types of neonatal sepsis: a multi-center retrospective study / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To study the clinical characteristics of different types of neonatal sepsis.Methods:From January 2012 to December 2019, neonates with confirmed sepsis from 5 neonatal centers of central-south China were reviewed. The neonates were assigned into early-onset sepsis (EOS) and late-onset sepsis (LOS) group, and the latter was further subgrouped into hospital-acquired LOS (hLOS) group and community-acquired LOS (cLOS) group. The etiological and clinical characteristics were analyzed. SPSS 26.0 was used for statistical analysis.Results:A total of 580 neonates were enrolled, including 286 (49.3%) in the EOS group and 294 (50.7%) in the LOS group. In LOS group, 147 were in hLOS group and 147 were in cLOS group. The gestational age and birth weight of hLOS group were significantly lower than the other two groups [(32.7±3.6) weeks vs. (37.1±3.7) weeks and (37.7±3.0) weeks, (1 810±717) g vs. (2 837±865) g and (3 024±710) g] ( P<0.05). The common pathogens in EOS and cLOS groups were coagulase-negative staphylococci and Escherichia coli, while Klebsiella pneumoniae was common in hLOS group. Carbapenems usage in the hLOS group was significantly higher than the other two groups [62.6% vs. 28.7% and 16.2%] ( P<0.05). Antibiotics duration in the hLOS group was longer than the other two groups [19 (14, 27) d vs. 15 (12, 20) d and 14 (12, 19) d] ( P<0.05). Conclusions:The clinical characteristics of neonatal sepsis vary among different types of infections, and it is necessary to establish appropriate prevention, control, diagnosis and treatment protocols.

Application value of procalcitonin in neonatal sepsis / 国际儿科学杂志

Procalcitonin(PCT), an important inflammatory suggestive marker of bacterial infection, has been widely used for the diagnosis of infectious diseases and guidance of antibiotic therapy in adults and children.Recent studies have shown that PCT, as a highly sensitive and specific inflammatory indicator, also has promising applications in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis, disease judgement, prognosis analysis, and antibiotic guidance of neonatal sepsis.Early PCT in neonates is characterized by physiological elevation, and it is important to understand the changing characteristics and influencing factors of PCT in neonates for an accurate clinical judgement of the disease.Therefore, we review the application value of PCT in neonatal sepsis.

Caracterización de la infección asociada a la asistencia sanitaria en la Neonatología del hospital materno provincial

Introducción: Las infecciones asociadas a la asistencia sanitaria constituyen un problema de salud actual en los servicios de Neonatología. En los últimos tiempos su complejidad ha aumentado debido a que la atención brindada a neonatos inmaduros, susceptibles a la colonización microbacteriana, se encuentra mediada por el uso de procedimientos invasivos que facilitan la entrada de las infecciones. Objetivo: Caracterizar la infección asociada a la asistencia sanitaria en la Neonatología del hospital materno provincial. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo de corte transversal con el objetivo de caracterizar la infección asociada a la asistencia sanitaria en la Neonatología del Hospital Materno Provincial Ana Betancourt de Mora en la provincia Camagüey, período comprendido del 1ro de enero al 31 de diciembre del año 2022. El universo de estudio estuvo constituido por todos los neonatos ingresados en el servicio de Neonatología y la muestra a discreción la conformaron los 143 pacientes con sepsis nosocomial. Resultados: Los neonatos con infección asociada a la asistencia sanitaria más afectados fueron los de edad gestacional entre las 31-36 semanas, peso 1 500-2 499 gramos, parto vía cesárea. Como factores maternos la infección de vías urinarias/vaginosis y los neonatales la prematuridad seguido por el catéter epicutáneo; en cuanto a la localización la infección respiratoria con mayor número de casos y los gérmenes Gram negativos el Enterobacter gergoviae con la mayor incidencia. Conclusiones: Tanto la modificación como el conocimiento de los factores de riesgo serán impactos favorables para su disminución.

Introduction: Infections associated with health care (IAAS) are a current health problem in Neonatology services. In recent times, its complexity has increased because the care provided to immature neonates, susceptible to mycobacterial colonization, is mediated by the use of invasive procedures that facilitate the entry of germs. Objective: To characterize healthcare associated infections in the Neonatology of the provincial maternity hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective descriptive observational study was carried out with the aim of characterizing the infection associated with health care in the Neonatology of the Ana Betancourt de Mora Provincial Maternity Hospital in the province of Camagüey, from January 1st to December 31st, 2022. The study universe consisted of all neonates admitted to the Neonatology service and the sample at discretion was made up of 143 patients with nosocomial sepsis. Results: The most affected neonates with healthcare-associated infection were those of gestational age between 31-36 weeks, weight 1500-2499 grams, delivery via cesarean section. As maternal factors urinary tract infection / vaginosis and neonatal prematurity followed by the epicutaneous catheter; regarding the location, the respiratory infection with the highest number of cases and the Gram negative germs the Enterobacter gergoviae with the highest incidence. Conclusions: Both the modification and the knowledge of the risk factors will be favorable impacts for their reduction.

The financial impact of neonatal sepsis on the Brazilian Unified Health System

Abstract Objective To evaluate the hospital cost of newborn infants diagnosed with sepsis from the perspective of the Brazilian Public Health System over 11 years. Method Cross-sectional study that analyzed secondary data from the databases of the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian Public Health System. Infants hospitalized between 0‒29 days after birth with a diagnosis of sepsis from 2008 to 2018 were included. The diagnosis used in the study was the one that the hospital considered the main diagnosis at admission. Costs were analyzed in US dollars and reflected the amount paid by the Brazilian Public Health System to the hospitals for the informed diagnosis upon admission. The costs were evaluated as the total per admission, and they were compared among Brazilian geographic regions, among etiologic agents, and between neonates with the diagnosis of sepsis that survived or died. Results From 2008 to 2018, 47,554 newborns were hospitalized with sepsis (148.04 cases per 100,000 live births), with an average cost of US$ 3345.59 per hospitalization, ranging from US$ 2970.60 in the North region to US$ 4305.03 in the Midwest. Among sepsis with identified agents, the highest mean cost was related to Gram-negative agents, and the lowest to Streptococcus agalactiae sepsis. Patients with sepsis who died had a higher cost than the survivors (t-test; p= 0.046). Conclusions The evaluation of costs related to neonatal sepsis in the country during an 11-year period shows the economic impact of morbidity that may be avoided by improving the quality of neonatal care.

Device-associated infections in neonatal care units in a middle-income country, 2016-2018

Abstract Objective: Describe the device-associated infections in the NICUs in Cali - Colombia, a middle-income country, between August 2016 to December 2018. Methods: Observational cross-sectional study evaluating reports of device-associated infections in 10 NICUs in Cali, Colombia, between August 2016 and December 2018. Socio-demographic and microbiological data were obtained from the National Public Health surveillance system, through a specialized notification sheet. The relationship of device-associated infections with several outcomes including birth weight, microorganisms, and mortality was evaluated using OR Cl95%, using the logistic regression model. Data processing was performed using the statistical program STATA 16. Results: 226 device-associated infections were reported. The rate of infection with central line-associated bloodstream infections was 2.62 per 1000 days of device use and 2.32 per 1000 days for ventilator-associated pneumonia. This was higher in neonates under 1000 g; 4.59 and 4.10, respectively. 43.4% of the infections were due to gram-negative bacteria and 42.3% were due to gram-positive bacteria. Time from hospitalization to diagnosis of all device-associated infections had a median of 14 days. When compared by weight, infants with a weight lower than 1000 g had a greater chance of death (OR 3.61; 95% CI 1.53-8.49, p = 0.03). Infection by gram-negative bacteria was associated with a greater chance of dying (OR 3.06 CI 95 1.33-7.06, p = 0.008). Conclusions: These results highlight the need to maintain epidemiological surveillance processes in neonatal intensive care units, especially when medical devices are used.

Comparison of mortality and survival without major morbidities of very preterm infants with very low birth weight from Japan and Brazil / Comparação entre mortalidade e sobrevida sem morbidades importantes dos recém-nascidos prematuros de muito baixo peso entre o Japão e o Brasil

Abstract Objective: This study was carried out to understand the disparities in mortality and survival without major morbidities among very premature and very low birth weight infants between participating Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) from the Brazilian Network on Neonatal Research (RBPN) and the Neonatal Research Network of Japan (NRNJ). Methods: Secondary data analysis of surveys by the RBPN and NRNJ was performed. The surveys were conducted in 2014 and 2015 and included 187 NICUs. Primary outcome was mortality or survival without any major morbidity. Logistic regression analysis adjustment for confounding factors was used. Results: The study population consisted of 6,406 infants from the NRNJ and 2,319 from the RBPN. Controlling for various confounders, infants from RBPN had 9.06 times higher adjusted odds of mortality (95%CI 7.30-11.29), and lower odds of survival without major morbidities (AOR 0.36; 95%CI 0.32-0.41) compared with those from the NRNJ. Factors associated with higher odds of mortality among Brazilian NICUs included: Air Leak Syndrome (AOR 4.73; 95%CI 1.26-15.27), Necrotizing Enterocolitis (AOR 3.25; 95%CI 1.38-7.26), and Late Onset Sepsis (LOS) (AOR 4.86; 95%CI 2.25-10.97). Conclusions: Very premature and very low birth weight infants from Brazil had significantly higher odds for mortality and lower odds for survival without major morbidities in comparison to those from Japan. Additionally, we identified the factors that increased the odds of in-hospital neonatal death in Brazil, most of which was related to LOS.

RESUMO Objetivo: Este estudo foi realizado para compreender as disparidades na mortalidade e sobrevivência sem as principais morbidades entre recém-nascidos muito prematuros e de muito baixo peso entre Unidades de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (UTINs) participantes da Rede Brasileira de Pesquisas Neonatais (RBPN) e Rede de Pesquisa Neonatal do Japão (NRNJ). Métodos: Foi realizada uma análise dos dados secundários dos bancos de dados da RBPN e da NRNJ. As pesquisas foram realizadas em 2014 e 2015 e incluíram 187 UTINs. O desfecho primário foi mortalidade ou sobrevida sem qualquer morbidade importante. Utilizou-se a análise de regressão logística com ajuste para os fatores de confusão. Resultados: A população do estudo foi composta por 6.406 recém-nascidos do NRNJ e 2.319 do RBPN. Ajustando para diversos fatores de confusão, os prematuros da RBPN tiveram 9,06 vezes maiores chances de mortalidade (IC95% 7,30-11,29) e menores chances de sobrevivência sem morbidades importantes (AOR 0,36; IC95% 0,32-0,41) em comparação com os da NRNJ. Fatores associados a maiores chances de mortalidade entre as UTINs brasileiras incluíram: síndrome de escape de ar (AOR 4,73; IC95% 1,26-15,27), enterocolite necrosante (AOR 3,25; IC95% 1,38-7,26) e sepse de início tardio (AOR 4,86; IC95% 2,25-10,97). Conclusões: Os recém-nascidos muito prematuros e de muito baixo peso do Brasil apresentaram chances significativamente maiores de mortalidade e menores chances de sobrevivência sem as principais morbidades em comparação aos do Japão. Além disso, identificamos os fatores que aumentam as chances da morte neonatal no Brasil, sendo a maioria relacionada à sepse tardia.

Incidence of blood culture-related sepsis in neonates and antibiotics sensitivity of implicated organisms in a secondary healthcare facility in Ghana

Objective: We determined the incidence of blood culture-related sepsis, causative bacteria, and antibiotics sensitivity among newborn babies with suggestive signs of sepsis admitted at the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga, Ghana. Design: Prospective cross-sectional study Setting: Newborn Care Unit of the Upper East Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga Participants: Neonates admitted to the Newborn Care Unit from August 2019 to August 2020 with signs of sepsis Main outcome measures: Organisms isolated from blood cultures and sensitivity of isolated organisms to antibiotics. Results: The study included two hundred and seventy-six (276) patients. Laboratory confirmed sepsis was 13.4% (37/276). Early onset sepsis was 3.3% (9/276), while late-onset sepsis was 10.1% (28/276). The most common clinical signs associated with positive culture cases were temperature instability (35.5%), poor feeding (14.5%), neonatal jaundice (11.3%), vomiting (9.7%), and respiratory distress (8.1%). Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis were the most common bacterial isolates (46% and 32%, respectively). There was no relationship between independent variables and blood culture confirmed sepsis. Antibiotics to which isolates were most resistant included flucloxacillin 4/4, penicillin 14/15, ampicillin 16/18, and tetracycline 23/28. Bacterial isolates were most sensitive to amikacin 16/16, levofloxacin 5/5, erythromycin 8/8, cefazolin 7/8, and ciprofloxacin 18/24. Conclusion: Late-onset sepsis is a common sepsis category, and the implicated microorganisms are resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics.

Clinical and Bacteriological Profile of Neonatal Sepsis- A Retrospective Study

Background: Neonatal sepsis is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in newborn in developing countries. The spectrum of bacteria which causes neonatal sepsis varies in different parts of the world. Surveillance of causative organisms and their antibiotic sensitivity pattern promotes rational use of antibiotics and antibiotic stewardship. Objective: To assess the clinical and bacteriological profile of neonatal sepsis.Material & Methods:A retrospective study was conducted at Department of Pediatrics, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Rajshahi, Bangladesh from January to June 2019. Of the 207 neonates with clinical suspicion of sepsis, 55 neonates included. Culture positive sepsis was defined as isolation of bacterial pathogen from blood in neonates with clinical suspicion of sepsis.Results:Of the 207 neonates with clinical suspicion of sepsis, 55 neonates had blood culture positive sepsis. Sepsis was predominant in males (64.5%). Low birth weight (47.2%) and prematurity (40.9%) were important neonatal risk factors for sepsis. Early onset sepsis occurred in 58.1% of the cases and late onset sepsis in 41.9% of the neonates. Gram-positive cocci constituted 67.52% of all isolates and gram negative 30.76%. The most frequently isolated organism in blood was methicillin resistant coagulase negative staphylococcus (MRCONS) (32.47%). Gram positive organisms included MRCONS, methicillin resistant Staphylococci aureus (MRSA), group B Streptococci (GBS), Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococci. Among Gram-negative organisms, Acinetobacter was most frequently isolated followed by Klebsiella, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Citrobacter and Burkholderia species. The mortality in the study group was 13.5%. Gram negative organisms were most resistant to ampicillin and cephalosporins. Gram positive isolates were least resistant to vancomycin and linezolid.Conclusion:In conclusion, gram positive sepsis was found to be common in present study, although mortality was high in gram negative sepsis. Careful measures have to be taken to overcome the change in trend of organisms causing sepsis, and selection of antibiotics should be prudent.

Infección tardía por Streptococcus agalactiae asociada a la leche humana: reporte de 3 casos clínicos / Streptococcus agalactiae late onset infection associated with human milk: three cases report

La infección por estreptococo ß-hemolítico del grupo B o Streptococcus agalactiae puede causar morbilidad grave y mortalidad en los recién nacidos, especialmente en prematuros. Las estrategias de prevención actuales han sido eficaces en reducir la frecuencia de sepsis neonatal temprana ocasionada por transmisión vertical. La incidencia de sepsis tardía por dicho microrganismo no se ha modificado y la vía de infección es menos clara. En niños amamantados, la transmisión a través de la leche materna es posible. Se presentan tres casos de infección tardía por estreptococo ß-hemolítico del grupo B en recién nacidos prematuros alimentados con leche materna cuyas madres tenían mastitis. En todos los casos, tanto en el cultivo de la leche materna como en los hemocultivos de los neonatos se desarrolló el mismo microrganismo.

Group B ß-hemolytic Streptococcus or Streptococcus agalactiae is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonates, especially in premature infants. Current prevention strategies have been effective in reducing the frequency of early onset neonatal sepsis caused by vertical transmission. The incidence of late onset sepsis due to this microorganism has not changed and the route of infection is less clear. In breastfed infants, transmission through breast milk is possible. We report three cases of late group B ß-hemolytic streptococcal infection in breastfed preterm infants whose mothers had mastitis. In all cases, both the breast milk culture and the blood cultures of the neonates developed the same microorganism.

Plan de implementación de Dosis Unitaria en el servicio de neonatología en el Hospital Cochabamba / Plan for the Implementation of the Unit Dose in the Neonatology Service of Cochabamba Hospital / Plano de Implementação de Dose Unitária no Serviço de Neonatologia do Hospital Cochabamba

En la actualidad la sepsis neonatal es uno de los principales diagnósticos en el servicio de Neonatología del Hospital Cochabamba, el medicamento de mayor elección para el tratamiento farmacológico de esta infección es la Amicacina, con la probabilidad de causar hipoacusia neonatal, la hipoacusia o disminución de la percepción auditiva, es un problema de especial importancia durante la infancia, ya que el desarrollo intelectual y social del niño está íntimamente ligado a las aferencias auditivas al sistema nervioso central, cuyo potencial discapacitante y minusvalidante depende en gran medida de la precocidad con que se realice el diagnóstico y se instaure el tratamiento y la rehabilitación. Objetivo. Diseñar un plan de implementación de Dosis Unitaria para contribuir a disminuir la hipoacusia en los pacientes neonatos. Materiales y Métodos se realizó un estudio documental basado en los registros de las Historias clínicas de los pacientes, realizándose un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se utilizaron los métodos empíricos como la encuesta, la entrevista y la observación científica, con el fin de demostrar y obtener un diagnóstico fidedigno, apoyándose con fuentes y estudios sobre la hipoacusia como sustento teórico. Resultados. Ante la evidencia de la existencia de la hipoacusia neonatal, como posible efecto adverso del uso farmacológico de la amicacina, se obtiene como resultado de la investigación la necesidad imperiosa de un plan de implementación en Dosis Unitaria para el servicio de neonatología del Hospital. Conclusiones. Los pacientes neonatos recibirán una atención segura, eficaz y humanizada con base a una implementación de Dosis Unitaria.

At present, neonatal sepsis is one of the main diagnoses in the Neonatology service of the Cochabamba Hospital, the drug of choice for the pharmacological treatment of this infection is Amicacin, with the probability of causing neonatal hypoacusis, the hypoacusis or decrease in auditory perception, is a problem of special importance during childhood, since the intellectual and social development of the child is intimately linked to the auditory afferents to the central nervous system, whose disabling and handicapping potential depends to a great extent on the precocity with which the diagnosis is made and the treatment and rehabilitation are established. Objective. To design a plan for the implementation of Unit Dose to contribute to the reduction of hearing loss in neonatal patients. Materials and Methods. A documentary study was carried out based on the patients' medical records, performing a descriptive and retrospective study. Empirical methods such as survey, interview and scientific observation were used in order to demonstrate and obtain a reliable diagnosis, supported by sources and studies on hypoacusis as theoretical support. Results. In view of the evidence of the existence of neonatal hypoacusis, as a possible adverse effect of the pharmacological use of amikacin, it is obtained as a result of the research the imperative need of an implementation plan in Unit Dose for the neonatology service of the Hospital. Conclusions. Neonatal patients will receive safe, effective and humanized care based on a Unit Dose implementation.

Atualmente, a sepse neonatal é um dos principais diagnósticos no serviço de Neonatologia do Hospital de Cochabamba. O medicamento de escolha para o tratamento farmacológico desta infecção é a Amicacina, com a probabilidade de causar hipoacusia neonatal, hipoacusia ou diminuição da percepção auditiva, é um problema de especial importância durante a infância, já que o desenvolvimento intelectual e social da criança está intimamente ligado aos aferentes auditivos do sistema nervoso central, cujo potencial incapacitante e deficiente depende em grande parte de quão cedo o diagnóstico é feito e como o tratamento e a reabilitação são estabelecidos. Objetivo. Elaborar um plano para a implementação da Unidade Dose para contribuir para a redução da perda auditiva em pacientes neonatais. Materiais e Métodos. Foi realizado um estudo documental baseado nos registros das histórias clínicas dos pacientes, realizando um estudo descritivo e retrospectivo. Métodos empíricos como pesquisa, entrevista e observação científica foram utilizados para demonstrar e obter um diagnóstico confiável, apoiado por fontes e estudos sobre hipoacusia como suporte teórico. Resultados. Dada a evidência da existência de hipoacusia neonatal, como um possível efeito adverso do uso farmacológico do amikacin, os resultados da pesquisa mostram a necessidade imperativa de um plano de implementação na Unidade Dose para o serviço de neonatologia do Hospital. Conclusões. Os pacientes neonatais receberão um cuidado seguro, eficaz e humanizado com base na implementação de uma dose unitária.

Correlation of C-Reactive Protein, Low Total Leucocyte Count and Platelet Count with Blood Culture in Neonates With Sepsis

Background: Neonatal sepsis is characterized by systemic signs and symptoms of generalised bacterial infection in the first four weeks of life. Early recognition and diagnosis of neonatal sepsis remains a challenge because of the variable and nonspecific clinical presentation. A combination of haematological and biochemical tests may provide a more rapid diagnosis of sepsis than blood culture which takes at least 24 to 48 hours for the results. Objectives: To study the correlation of parameters of sepsis screen with blood culture in neonates with clinical sepsis and or having significant risk factors for sepsis and To study the outcome of neonatal sepsis was our secondary aim.Material & Methods:The descriptive prospective study with cross sectional design was conducted on 100 neonates admitted with signs and symptoms of sepsis in the nursery ward and NICU of paediatric department of BebeNanki Hospital, GMC, Amritsar. Sepsis screen and blood culture (gold standard for neonatal sepsis diagnosis) and other relevant investigations were sent under strict aseptic conditions and treatment was started. S.CRP levels >1mg/dl, total leukocyte count < 5000 cells/cumm, platelets count < 1.5 lakhs/ µL were taken as positive significant (P <0.005) markers for neonatal sepsis. The data was tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis.Results:Positive CRP (>1mg/dl) were found to be highly significant (p<0.0001), Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV, NPV and Diagnostic accuracy were 93.33%,16.00%,76.92%,44.44% and 74.00% respectively. TLC <5000 were found to be significant (p<0.0001), Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV, NPV and Diagnostic accuracy were 65.33%,44.00%,77.78 %,29.73% and 60.00% respectively. Platelet count < 1.5 lakhs/ µL was found to be significant (p<0.0091), Sensitivity, Specificity, PPV, NPV and Diagnostic accuracy were 68.00%, 16.00%,70.83%,14.29% and 55.00% respectively.Conclusions:In developing countries like India, where blood culture investigations are limited, altered haematological parameters such as CRP, TLC, and Platelets counts can serve as quick, simple, economical methods to diagnose neonatal sepsis. Further studies with larger sample size are required to substantiate the results.