Implementing palliative care, based on family-centered care, in a highly complex neonatal unit

Abstract Objective: To describe the causes and circumstances of neonatal mortality and determine whether the implementation of a palliative care protocol has improved the quality of end-of-life care. Methods: A retrospective observational study including all patient mortalities between January 2009 and December 2019. Cause of death and characteristics of support during the dying process were collected. Two periods, before and after the implementation of a palliative care protocol, were compared. Results: There were 344 deaths. Congenital malformations were the most frequent cause of death (45.6 %). Most patients died after the transition to palliative care (74.4 %). The most frequently cited criteria for initiating transition of care was poor neurocognitive prognosis (47.2 %). Parents accompanied their children in the dying process in 72 % of cases. Twenty-three percent of patients died outside the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit after being transferred to a private room to enhance family intimacy. After the addition of the palliative care protocol, statistically significant differences were observed in the support and patient experience during the dying process. Conclusions: The most frequent causes of death were severe congenital malformations. Most patients died accompanied by their parents after the transition to palliative care. The implementation of a palliative care protocol helped to improve the family-centered end-of-life care.

End-of-life care in neonatal intensive care units in Iberoamerica: A look from the nursing perspective.

INTRODUCTION: End-of-life care (ELC) represents a quality milestone in neonatal intensive care units (NICU). The objective of this study was to explore how ELC are carried out in NICUs in Iberoamerica. METHODS: Cross-sectional study, through the administration of an anonymous survey sent to neonatal nursing professionals. The survey included general data and work activity data; existence and contents of ELC protocols in the NICU and training received. The survey was distributed by email and published on official SIBEN social networks. REDCap and STATA 14.0 software were used for data collection and analysis. RESULTS: We obtained 400 responses from nurses from 11 countries in the Ibero-American region. 86% of the respondents are directly responsible for providing ELC, although 48% of them said they had not received training on this subject. Only 67 (17%) state that the NICU in which they work has a protocol that establishes a strategy for performing the ELC. Finally, the actions that are implemented during the ELC are globally infrequent (≤50%) in all the items explored and very infrequent (<20%) in relation to allowing free access to family members, having privacy, providing psychological assistance, register the process in the medical record, assist with bureaucratic processes or grant a follow-up plan for grief. CONCLUSION: Most of the nursing professionals surveyed are directly responsible for this care, do not have protocols, have not received training, and consider that the ELC could be significantly improved. Strategies for ELCs in the Ibero-American region need to be optimized.

Reproductive and economic evaluation of sexual stimulation during the anestrous period in a commercial farm with neonatal lamb losses / Avaliação reprodutiva e econômica da estimulação sexual durante o período antrópico em uma fazenda comercial com perdas neonatais de cordeiros

This study was performed during the anestrous, involving 140 Akkaraman Kangal ewes whose lambs had died in the neonatal stage due to pneumonia and enteritis. Intravaginal sponge containing progesterone was placed to the animals (Group 1, n = 70) on day 0 and removed after 7 days, following which 263 µg PGF2α and 500 IU eCG were administered to the sheep. Ram introduction was performed for 7 days (days 8-14), starting from the day after the removal of the intravaginal sponge (day 8). The animals in Group 2 (n = 70) were not exposed to any treatment. Ram introduction was performed simultaneously in both the groups. To determine the reproductive response, reproductive parameters such as estrous, pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, and embryonic mortality rates, number of births, number of offspring, and fertility, as well as their economic implications, were compared between groups. Each reproductive parameter exhibited a statistical difference between groups. An economically positive trend was observed in the study group compared with the control group. It was concluded that in case of lamb losses in commercial farms that derive profit from lambing, pregnancy of ewes can be achieved via sexual stimulation without waiting for the next breeding season.

Este estudo foi realizado durante o anestrous, envolvendo 140 ovelhas Akkaraman Kangal cujos cordeiros haviam morrido no estágio neonatal devido a pneumonia e enterite. A esponja intragaginal contendo progesterona foi colocada aos animais (Grupo 1, n = 70) no dia 0 e removida após 7 dias, após os quais 263 µg PGF2α e 500 UI eCG foram administrados às ovelhas. A introdução do carneiro foi realizada por 7 dias (dias 8-14), a partir do dia seguinte à remoção da esponja intravaginal (dia 8). Os animais do Grupo 2 (n = 70) não foram expostos a nenhum tratamento. A introdução do carneiro foi realizada simultaneamente em ambos os grupos. Para determinar a resposta reprodutiva, foram comparados entre os grupos parâmetros reprodutivos, tais como estrogênio, gravidez, gravidez múltipla e taxas de mortalidade embrionária, número de nascimentos, número de descendentes e fertilidade, bem como suas implicações econômicas. Cada parâmetro reprodutivo exibia uma diferença estatística entre os grupos. Uma tendência economicamente positiva foi observada no grupo de estudo em comparação com o grupo de controle. Concluiu-se que no caso de perdas de cordeiros em fazendas comerciais que obtêm lucros com a parição, a gravidez de ovelhas pode ser obtida através de estimulação sexual sem esperar pela próxima estação de reprodução.

Factores de riesgo predisponentes al desarrollo de preeclampsia y eclampsia en el embarazo / Risk factors for the development of preeclampsia and eclampsia in pregnancy

Resumen La preeclampsia es una patología de origen desconocido, de alta incidencia en la salud materna y neonatal. Caracterizada como una hipertensión gestacional grave multisistémica a partir de las 20 semanas de gestación hasta el parto y posparto, siendo de los trastornos más prevalentes en el mundo y la principal causa de muerte materna en Ecuador durante 2022. El objetivo fue realizar una revisión bibliográfica respecto de los factores de riesgo que predisponen preeclampsia en embarazadas. Mediante una revisión bibliográfica de estudios correspondientes a factores predisponentes al desarrollo de preeclampsia y eclampsia en embarazadas cuyos resultados se enfocaron a pacientes adultas diagnosticadas con dichas patologías mediante estrategia PICO, aplicando criterios de inclusión y exclusión. La preeclampsia conlleva una diversidad de factores de riesgo familiares patológicos como preeclampsia previa, hipertensión o enfermedades renales, diabéticas y obesidad; otros factores incluyen: edad, raza, embarazos gemelares, multiparidad, progenitores de distinta índole. Los factores significativos para presentar la enfermedad fueron en su mayoría factores ginecoobstétricos donde destacaron multiparidad, edad, obesidad, malnutrición, hipertensión previa y factores hereditarios.

Abstract Preeclampsia is a condition of unknown origin, with a high incidence in maternal and neonatal health, characterized as a severe multisystemic gestational hypertension from the 20th week of gestation until childbirth and postpartum. Among the most prevalent disorders worldwide, in Ecuador was the main cause of maternal death during 2022. The objective was to conduct a literature review regarding risk factors that predispose pregnant women to preeclampsia. Through a literature review of studies corresponding to predisposing factors for the development of preeclampsia and eclampsia in pregnant women, whose results were focused on adult patients diagnosed with said pathologies through the PICO strategy, applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Preeclampsia involves a variety of pathological familial risk factors such as prior preeclampsia, hypertension, renal diseases, diabetes, and obesity; other factors include age, race, twin pregnancies, multiparity, and diverse parental lineage. The significant factors for presenting the disease were mostly gynecobstetric factors, prominently multiparity, age, obesity, malnutrition, prior hypertension, and hereditary factors.

Experiência dos enfermeiros no cuidado às mulheres diante das perdas gestacionais / Nurses' experience in caring for women in the face of pregnancy losses

Resumo: A gestação é um fenômeno fisiológico e mesmo com o manejo de pré-natal adequado, as perdas gestacionais podem ocorrer. A Organização Mundial da Saúde estima uma ocorrência de 4,9 milhões de mortes perinatais no mundo todos os anos. No Brasil, a incidência em 2020, mostrou um total de 28.993 casos, sendo 1.062 no estado do Paraná e, destes, 117 na cidade de Curitiba. Não obstante, para além dos dados, tem-se o impacto emocional para todos os envolvidos, inquestionáveis para a mulher e família que sofre com a perda gestacional, mas também para os profissionais de saúde, em especial os enfermeiros, que se deparam com estas situações ao longo da vida profissional. Desta forma, este estudo teve como questão de pesquisa: qual a percepção do enfermeiro sobre o cuidado oferecido à mulher que sofreu perda gestacional? Ainda, como objetivo geral, compreender a percepção do enfermeiro que presta cuidados às mulheres diante das perdas gestacionais; e objetivos específicos: identificar elementos do cuidado do enfermeiro frente à mulher que sofreu perda gestacional e descrever a experiência dos enfermeiros sobre seu cuidado diante da mulher que diante perda gestacional. Trata-se de estudo qualitativo exploratório, realizado em um hospital universitário da Região Sul do país. A coleta de dados deu-se através de entrevistas semiestruturadas, as quais foram audiogravadas e transcritas na íntegra, durante os meses de abril a junho de 2022. Contou com a participação de 11 enfermeiros que atuam diretamente com mulheres em situação de perda gestacional. Para análise dos dados, foram seguidos os passos da Análise de Conteúdo do tipo temática proposta por Bardin e apoiada pelo uso do software de análise qualitativa o webQDA. Resultados: foram levantados 13 temas, os quais, por afinidade e exclusão, resultaram na elaboração de 3 categorias: Fragilidades do processo de cuidar frente às perdas gestacionais; Potencialidades do processo de cuidar frente às perdas gestacionais; e Cuidados de enfermagem frente às perdas gestacionais. Foi possível evidenciar que os enfermeiros conseguiam reconhecer as lacunas assistenciais e, mesmo com suas dificuldades, prestavam um cuidado respeitoso e empático, além de proporcionar momento de criação de memórias para as famílias enlutadas, através de fotos ou guarda de pertences que foram do bebê, que passou tão brevemente pela vida. O estudo permitiu compreender que os enfermeiros entrevistados reconheciam a importância da sua presença como um profissional que oferece um cuidado direcionado a cada mulher/família em situação de perda gestacional nas suas necessidades, enfatizaram a comunicação verbal e não verbal, sendo uma de suas preocupações que esta compreendesse, para além da assistência oferecida, este olhar singular do profissional. Os impactos do desenvolvimento deste trabalho podem resultar na elaboração de documentos, materiais educativos e protocolos assistenciais voltados aos profissionais de saúde que prestam cuidados diante das perdas gestacionais dentro das instituições hospitalares.

Abstract: Pregnancy is a physiological phenomenon. However, even with proper prenatal care management, pregnancy losses may occur. The World Health Organization estimates 4.9 million perinatal deaths worldwide every year. In Brazil, showed an incidence of 28,993 cases in 2020, with 1,062 cases in Parana State and, among these, 117 in its capital city, Curitiba. Therefore, that is a global health problem, but there still have been scarce public policies addressing this theme. Apart from the data, there is also the emotional impact on all the involved individuals, unquestionably to the woman and family who suffer the pregnancy loss, but also to the healthcare professionals, ultimately nurses, who are confronted with those situations along their professional lives. Thus, the research question in this study was: what is the nurses' perception on the health care delivered to the woman facing a pregnancy loss? In addition, the general objective was to understand the nurse's perception who renders health care to the woman who suffered a pregnancy loss. It is an exploratory qualitative study held at a university hospital in Southern Brazil. Data collection was conducted by means of semi-structured interviews, which were audio recorded and fully transcribed between April and June 2022. The participants were 11 nurses who care for women in a situation of pregnancy loss. For the data analysis, Thematic Content Analysis proposed by Bardin was applied, supported by the use of the webQDAE software for qualitative analysis. Results: 13 themes by affinity and exclusion stood out by means of the analysis, which resulted in the elaboration of 3 categories: Fragilities in the caring process in the face of pregnancy losses; Potentialities of the caring process in the face of pregnancy losses; and Nursing Care in the face of pregnancy losses. It was possible to evidence that nurses could recognize caring gaps, and even facing difficulties, they could deliver respectful and empathetic care, in addition to providing a moment of creating memories to bereaved families through photos or belongings of the baby who briefly got through their lives. The study enabled to understand that the interviewed nurses acknowledged the importance of their presence as professionals who delivered care to meet the needs of each woman/family going through a pregnancy loss. They also pointed out verbal and non-verbal communication as one of their concerns so that the women could understand their unique professional look, beyond care delivery. The study outcomes may result in the elaboration of documents, educational materials and care protocols to those health professionals who are confronted with pregnancy losses while rendering care within hospital institutions.

Predictive performance of fetal growth restriction criteria for adverse perinatal outcomes in a hospital in Popayán, Colombia / Desempeño predictivo de los criterios diagnósticos de restricción de crecimiento fetal para resultados adversos perinatales en un hospital de Popayán, Colombia.

Objectives: To determine the predictive performance of fetal growth restriction by Maternal Fetal Medicine Society (MFMS) definition of ultrasound, the Delphi consensus (DC) and the Barcelona Fetal Medicine (BFM) criteria for adverse perinatal outcomes, and to identify whether there is an association between the diagnosis of fetal growth restriction (FGR) and adverse perinatal outcomes. Material and methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted including women with singleton pregnancies between 24 and 36 weeks of gestation seen at the maternal fetal medicine unit for ultrasound assessment of fetal growth and delivery care in a public referral hospital in Popayán, Colombia. Pregnancies with ultrasound findings of congenital abnormalities were excluded. Convenience sampling was used. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were measured on admission; additional variables were gestational age, FGR diagnosis and adverse composite perinatal outcome. The predictive ability of three fetal growth restriction diagnostic criteria for poor perinatal outcomes was analyzed and asociation between FGR and adverse perinatlal outcomes. Results: Overall, 228 pregnant women with a mean age of 26.8 years were included; FGR prevalence according to the three criteria was 3.95 %, 16.6 % and 21.9 % for DC, BFM and MFMS, respectively. None of the criteria resulted in an acceptable area under the curve for the prediction of the composite adverse neonatal outcome; FGR diagnosis by DC and MFMS were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes with a RR of 2.6 (95 % CI: 1.5-4.3) and 1.57 (95 % CI: 1.01-2.44) respectively. No association was found for BFM RR: 1.32 (95 % CI: 0.8-2.1). Conclusions: Given a positive result for FGR, the Delphi method is significantly associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. The proportion of false negative results for a poor perinatal outcome is high for the three methods. Prospective studies that reduce measurement and attrition bias are required.

Objetivos: determinar el desempeño predictivo de la definición de retardo de crecimiento fetal (RCF) de ultrasonografía de la Sociedad de Medicina Materno Fetal (SMMF), consenso Delphi (CD) y Medicina Fetal de Barcelona (MFB) respecto a resultados adversos perinatales en cada una, e identificar si hay asociación entre diagnóstico de RCF y resultados adversos perinatales. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva. Se incluyeron gestantes con embarazo único de 24 a 36 semanas con 6 días, quienes fueron atendidas en la unidad de medicina materna fetal con evaluación ecográfica de crecimiento fetal y atención de parto en una institución hospitalaria pública de referencia ubicada en Popayán, Colombia. Se excluyeron embarazos con hallazgos ecográficos de anomalías congénitas. Muestreo por conveniencia. Se midieron variables sociodemográficas y clínicas de las gestantes al ingreso, la edad gestacional, el diagnóstico de RCF y el resultado adverso perinatal compuesto. Se analizó la capacidad predictiva de tres criterios diagnósticos de restricción de crecimiento fetal para malos resultados perinatales y la asociación entre el diagnóstico de RCF y mal resultado periantal. Resultados: se incluyeron 228 gestantes, cuya edad media fue de 26,8 años, la prevalencia de RCF según los tres criterios fue de 3,95 %, 16,6 % y 21,9 % para CD, MFB y SMMF respectivamente. Ningún criterio aportó área bajo la curva aceptable para predicción de resultado neonatal adverso compuesto, el diagnóstico de RCF por CD y SMMF se asoció a resultados adversos perinatales con RR de 2,6 (IC 95 %: 1,5-4,3) y 1,57 (IC 95 %: 1,01-2,44), respectivamente. No se encontró asociación por MFB RR: 1,32 (IC 95 %: 0,8-2,1). Conclusiones: ante un resultado positivo para RCF, el método Delphi se asocia de manera más importante a los resultados perinatales adversos.Los tres métodos tienen una muy alta proporción de falsos negativos en la predicción de mal resultado perinatal. Se requieren estudios prospectivos que reduzcan los sesgos de medición y datos ausentes.

Desempeño predictivo de los criterios diagnósticos de restricción de crecimiento fetal para resultados adversos perinatales en un hospital de Popayán, Colombia / Predictive performance of fetal growth restriction criteria for adverse perinatal outcomes in a hospital in Popayán, Colombia

Objetivos: determinar el desempeño predictivo de la definición de retardo de crecimiento fetal (RCF) de ultrasonografía de la Sociedad de Medicina Materno Fetal (SMMF), consenso Delphi (CD) y Medicina Fetal de Barcelona (MFB) respecto a resultados adversos perinatales en cada una, e identificar si hay asociación entre diagnóstico de RCF y resultados adversos perinatales. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva. Se incluyeron gestantes con embarazo único de 24 a 36 semanas con 6 días, quienes fueron atendidas en la unidad de medicina materna fetal con evaluación ecográfica de crecimiento fetal y atención de parto en una institución hospitalaria pública de referencia ubicada en Popayán, Colombia. Se excluyeron embarazos con hallazgos ecográficos de anomalías congénitas. Muestreo por conveniencia. Se midieron variables sociodemográficas y clínicas de las gestantes al ingreso, la edad gestacional, el diagnóstico de RCF y el resultado adverso perinatal compuesto. Se analizó la capacidad predictiva de tres criterios diagnósticos de restricción de crecimiento fetal para malos resultados perinatales y la asociación entre el diagnóstico de RCF y mal resultado periantal. Resultados: se incluyeron 228 gestantes, cuya edad media fue de 26,8 años, la prevalencia de RCF según los tres criterios fue de 3,95 %, 16,6 % y 21,9 % para CD, MFB y SMMF respectivamente. Ningún criterio aportó área bajo la curva aceptable para predicción de resultado neonatal adverso compuesto, el diagnóstico de RCF por CD y SMMF se asoció a resultados adversos perinatales con RR de 2,6 (IC 95 %: 1,5-4,3) y 1,57 (IC 95 %: 1,01-2,44), respectivamente. No se encontró asociación por MFB RR: 1,32 (IC 95 %: 0,8-2,1). Conclusiones: ante un resultado positivo para RCF, el método Delphi se asocia de manera más importante a los resultados perinatales adversos.Los tres métodos tienen una muy alta proporción de falsos negativos en la predicción de mal resultado perinatal. Se requieren estudios prospectivos que reduzcan los sesgos de medición y datos ausentes.

Objectives: To determine the predictive performance of fetal growth restriction by Maternal Fetal Medicine Society (MFMS) definition of ultrasound, the Delphi consensus (DC) and the Barcelona Fetal Medicine (BFM) criteria for adverse perinatal outcomes, and to identify whether there is an association between the diagnosis of fetal growth restriction (FGR) and adverse perinatal outcomes. Material and methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted including women with singleton pregnancies between 24 and 36 weeks of gestation seen at the maternal fetal medicine unit for ultrasound assessment of fetal growth and delivery care in a public referral hospital in Popayán, Colombia. Pregnancies with ultrasound findings of congenital abnormalities were excluded. Convenience sampling was used. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were measured on admission; additional variables were gestational age, FGR diagnosis and adverse composite perinatal outcome. The predictive ability of three fetal growth restriction diagnostic criteria for poor perinatal outcomes was analyzed and asociation between FGR and adverse perinatlal outcomes. Results: Overall, 228 pregnant women with a mean age of 26.8 years were included; FGR prevalence according to the three criteria was 3.95 %, 16.6 % and 21.9 % for DC, BFM and MFMS, respectively. None of the criteria resulted in an acceptable area under the curve for the prediction of the composite adverse neonatal outcome; FGR diagnosis by DC and MFMS were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes with a RR of 2.6 (95 % CI: 1.5-4.3) and 1.57 (95 % CI: 1.01-2.44) respectively. No association was found for BFM RR: 1.32 (95 % CI: 0.8-2.1). Conclusions: Given a positive result for FGR, the Delphi method is significantly associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. The proportion of false negative results for a poor perinatal outcome is high for the three methods. Prospective studies that reduce measurement and attrition bias are required.

Early Antibiotic Exposure and Adverse Outcomes in Very Preterm Infants at Low Risk of Early-Onset Sepsis: The EPIPAGE-2 Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between early empirical antibiotics and neonatal adverse outcomes in very preterm infants without risk factors for early-onset sepsis (EOS). STUDY DESIGN: This is a secondary analysis of the EPIPAGE-2 study, a prospective national population-based cohort that included all liveborn infants at 22-31 completed weeks of gestation in France in 2011. Infants at high risk of EOS (ie, born after preterm labor or preterm premature rupture of membranes or from a mother who had clinical chorioamnionitis or had received antibiotics during the last 72 hours) were excluded. Early antibiotic exposure was defined as antibiotic therapy started at day 0 or day 1 of life, irrespective of the duration and type of antibiotics. We compared treated and untreated patients using inverse probability of treatment weighting based on estimated propensity scores. RESULTS: Among 648 very preterm infants at low risk of EOS, 173 (26.2%) had received early antibiotic treatment. Early antibiotic exposure was not associated with death or late-onset sepsis or necrotizing enterocolitis (OR, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.72-1.50); however, it was associated with higher odds of severe cerebral lesions (OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.25-5.86) and moderate-severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.21-4.38). CONCLUSIONS: Early empirical antibiotic therapy administrated in very preterm infants at low risk of EOS was associated with a higher risk of severe cerebral lesions and moderate-severe BPD.

Corticosteroids in Pregnancy for Preventing RDS: Overview of Systematic Reviews.

The objective of this study was to analyze the available evidence of systematic reviews that evaluated the efficacy of antenatal corticosteroids in order to contribute to a reduction in magnitude and transcendence of respiratory distress syndrome of the newborn (RDS). Thus, an overview was conducted including all systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated women who received corticosteroid treatment during pregnancy to prevent RDS. Therefore, a search strategy was developed using the terms "respiratory distress syndrome, newborn," "corticosteroids," "perinatal death," "neonatal death," "neonate," and "pregnancy." The electronic databases searched were MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, LILACS, and Google Scholar, for studies published until June 2020. We identified 354 references, 38 of which were relevant after the initial screening. Ten systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. For RDS, 1522 cases occurred in the control group composed of 8716 participants, while in the intervention group was 1088 in 8740 participants (RR = 0.67, 95% CI 0.60-0.75). For neonatal death, 343 cases occurred in 5248 participants of the control group, while in the intervention group, there were 227 cases in 5246 participants (RR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.56-0.78). For perinatal death, there were 344 cases in 3345 participants in the control group, while in the intervention group, the number of cases was 264 in 3384 participants (RR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.58-0.89). Thus, the use of corticosteroids during pregnancy in women at risk of preterm birth is effective for the prevention of RDS in neonates and reducing the number of neonatal and perinatal deaths in preterm. PROSPERO protocol no: CRD42017074604.

Mortalidade perinatal no Brasil em 2018: análise epidemiológica segundo a classificação de Wiggleworth modificada / Perinatal mortality in Brazil in 2018: an epidemiological analysis according to the modified Wigglesworth classification / Mortalidad perinatal en Brasil en 2018: análisis epidemiológico según la clasificación de Wiggleworth modificada

Resumo: A mortalidade perinatal engloba a mortalidade fetal e a neonatal precoce (0 a 6 dias). Este estudo descreveu os óbitos perinatais ocorridos no Brasil em 2018, segundo a classificação de Wigglesworth modificada. As fontes de dados foram os Sistemas de Informações sobre Mortalidade e sobre Nascidos Vivos. Foram calculadas as taxas de mortalidade fetal e perinatal por mil nascimentos totais (nascidos vivos mais natimortos) e a taxa de mortalidade neonatal precoce por mil nascidos vivos, e comparadas usando seus respectivos intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%). Os óbitos perinatais foram classificados nos grupos de causas anteparto, anomalias congênitas, prematuridade, asfixia e causas específicas. Foi calculado, para cada grupo de causas, o número de óbitos por faixa de peso, além das taxas de mortalidade e os respectivos IC95%, e feita a distribuição espacial das taxas de mortalidade por Unidade da Federação (UF). Foram registrados 35.857 óbitos infantis, sendo 18.866 (52,6%) neonatais precoces; os natimortos somaram 27.009. Os óbitos perinatais totalizaram 45.875, perfazendo uma taxa de mortalidade de 15,5‰ nascimentos. A maior taxa de mortalidade (7,6‰; 7,5‰-7,7‰) foi observada no grupo anteparto, seguido da prematuridade (3,6‰; 3,6‰-3,7‰). No grupo anteparto, 14 das 27 UFs (sendo oito na Região Nordeste e quatro na Região Norte) apresentaram as taxas de mortalidade perinatal acima da nacional. A taxa de mortalidade perinatal no Brasil mostrou-se elevada, e a maioria dos óbitos poderia ser prevenida com investimento em cuidados pré-natais e ao nascimento.

Abstract: Perinatal mortality includes fetal mortality and early neonatal mortality (0 to 6 days of life). The study described perinatal deaths in Brazil in 2018 according to the modified Wigglesworth classification. The data sources were the Brazilian Mortality Information System and the Brazilian Information System on Live Births. Fetal mortality and perinatal mortality rates were calculated per 1,000 total births (live births plus stillbirths) and the early neonatal mortality rate per 1,000 live births, compared using their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Perinatal deaths were classified in groups of antepartum causes, congenital anomalies, prematurity, asphyxia, and specific causes. For each group of causes, the study calculated the number of deaths by weight group, in addition to mortality rates and respective 95%CI, besides the spatial distribution of mortality rates by state of Brazil. A total of 35,857 infant deaths were recorded, of which 18,866 (52.6%) were early neonatal deaths, while stillbirths totaled 27,009. Perinatal deaths totaled 45,875, for a mortality rate of 15.5‰ births. The highest mortality rate (7.6‰; 7.5‰-7.7‰) was observed in the antepartum group, followed by prematurity (3.6‰; 3.6‰-3.7‰). In the antepartum group, 14 of the 27 states (eight of which in the Northeast and four in the North) presented perinatal mortality rates above the national rate. Perinatal mortality in Brazil was high, and most deaths could have been prevented with investment in prenatal and childbirth care.

Resumen: La mortalidad perinatal engloba la mortalidad fetal y neonatal precoz (0 a 6 días). Este estudio describió los óbitos perinatales ocurridos en Brasil en 2018, según la clasificación de Wigglesworth modificada. Las fuentes de datos fueron los Sistemas de Información sobre Mortalidad y sobre Nacidos Vivos. Se calcularon las tasas de mortalidad fetal y perinatal por 1.000 nacimientos totales (nacidos vivos más mortinatos) y la tasa de mortalidad neonatal precoz por 1.000 nacidos vivos, y se compararon usando sus respectivos intervalos de 95% de confianza (IC95%). Los óbitos perinatales se clasificaron en los grupos de causas: anteparto, anomalías congénitas, prematuridad, asfixia y causas específicas. Se calculó, para cada grupo de causas, el número de óbitos por franja de peso, además de las tasas de mortalidad y los respectivos IC95%, y se realizó la distribución espacial de las tasas de mortalidad por Unidad de la Federación (UF). Se registraron 35.857 óbitos infantiles, siendo 18.866 (52,6%) neonatales precoces; los mortinatos sumaron 27.009. Los óbitos perinatales totalizaron 45.875, ascendiendo a una tasa de mortalidad de un 15,5‰ nacimientos. La mayor tasa de mortalidad (7,6‰; 7,5‰-7,7‰) se observó en el grupo anteparto, seguido de la prematuridad (3,6‰; 3,6‰-3,7‰). En el grupo anteparto, 14 de las 27 UFs (estando ocho en la región Nordeste y cuatro en la región Norte) presentaron tasas de mortalidad perinatal por encima de la nacional. La tasa de mortalidad perinatal en Brasil se mostró elevada y la mayoría de los óbitos podría ser prevenido con inversión en cuidados prenatales y en el nacimiento.

Factors associated with neonatal death among adolescent mothers / Fatores associados ao óbito neonatal de mães adolescentes

Abstract Objectives: to analyze factors associated with neonatal death among adolescent mothers. Methods: randomized hospital-based cross-sectional study in a tertiary institution,, data from the Sistema de Informação sobre Nascidos Vivos (Sinasc), (Live Birth Information System), Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade (SIM) (Mortality Information System), and medical records. The study population was comprised of 1,341 adolescents aged 10-19 who had assisted childbirth at the institution between 2012 to 2016. The independent variables were sociodemographic characteristics, care, prenatal, childbirth, birth, and newborn's hospitalization, as well as the baby's characteristics. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to assess the association between neonatal death and explanatory variables. Results: the factors associated with death were from the countryside or other States (OR=2.68; CI95% =1.24-5.81), Apgar scores lower than 7 in the 1st (OR= 9.52; CI95% = 4.15-21.81) and the 5th (OR=4.17; CI95%=1.53-11.34) minutes of life; and birth weight less than 999g (OR=13.37; CI95% =3, 64-49.04) and between 1,500 to 2,499g (OR=3.43; CI95%=1.37-8.58). Conclusions: apgar and low birth weight were associated with the neonatal death among adolescent mothers, as well as the fact they come from the countryside and other States. These findings show, in addition to classic risks, potential difficulties for adolescents in having access to healthcare services in their hometown. To reduce the risks, there is a need for restructuring the maternal and child healthcare network and ensure a social protection network for these girls.

Resumo Objetivos: analisar fatores associados ao óbito neonatal de mães adolescentes. Métodos: estudo transversal de base hospitalar em instituição terciária, randomizado, com dados do Sistema de Informação sobre Nascidos Vivos (Sinasc), Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade (SIM) e de prontuários. A população do estudo compreendeu 1.341 adolescentes de 10 a 19 anos assistidos durante o parto na instituição entre 2012 a 2016. As variáveis independentes foram características sociodemográficas, assistenciais, relacionadas ao pré-natal, parto, nascimento e internamento do recém-nascido, além das características do bebê. Realizou-se análise de regressão logística para avaliar a associação entre óbito neonatal e variáveis explanatórias. Resultados: os fatores associados ao óbito foram municípios do interior e outros estados (OR=2,68; IC95%=1,24-5,81), índices de apgar menor que sete no 1º(OR=9,52; IC95%=4,15-21,81) e no 5º(OR=4,17; IC95%=1,53-11,34) minutos de vida e peso ao nascer menor que 999g (OR=13,37; IC95%= 3,64-49,04) e entre 1500 a 2499g (OR=3,43; IC95%= 1,37-8,58). Conclusões: o apgar e o baixo peso ao nascer se associaram ao óbito neonatal de mães adolescentes além da procedência de municípios do interior e outros estados. Estes achados mostram além de riscos clássicos, potenciais dificuldade das adolescentes em dispor de assistência nos seus lugares de residência. Para reduzir os riscos há necessidade de reorganizar a rede assistencial materno-infantil e garantir uma rede de proteção social a estas meninas.

Association of parity with birthweight and neonatal death in five sites: The Global Network's Maternal Newborn Health Registry study.

BACKGROUND: Nulliparity has been associated with lower birth weight (BW) and other adverse pregnancy outcomes, with most of the data coming from high-income countries. In this study, we examined birth weight for gestational age z-scores and neonatal (28-day) mortality in a large prospective cohort of women dated by first trimester ultrasound from multiple sites in low and middle-income countries. METHODS: Pregnant women were recruited during the first trimester of pregnancy and followed through 6 weeks postpartum from Maternal Newborn Health Registry (MNHR) sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Guatemala, Belagavi and Nagpur, India, and Pakistan from 2017 and 2018. Data related to the pregnancy and its outcomes were collected prospectively. First trimester ultrasound was used for determination of gestational age; (BW) was obtained in grams within 48 h of delivery and later transformed to weight for age z-scores (WAZ) adjusted for gestational age using the INTERGROWTH-21st standards. RESULTS: 15,121 women were eligible and included. Infants of nulliparous women had lower mean BWs (males: 2676 gr, females: 2587 gr, total: 2634 gr) and gestational age adjusted weight for age z-scores (males: - 0.73, females: - 0.77, total: - 0.75,) than women with one or more previous pregnancies. The largest differences were between zero and one previous pregnancies among female infants. The associations of parity with BW and z-scores remained even after adjustment for maternal age, maternal height, maternal education, antenatal care visits, hypertensive disorders, and socioeconomic status. Nulliparous women also had a significantly higher < 28-day neonatal mortality rate (27.7 per 1,000 live births) than parous women (17.2 and 20.7 for parity of 1-3 and ≥ 4 respectively). Risk of preterm birth was higher among women with ≥ 4 previous pregnancies (15.5%) compared to 11.3% for the nulliparous group and 11.8% for women with one to three previous pregnancies (p = 0.0072). CONCLUSIONS: In this large sample from diverse settings, nulliparity was independently associated with both lower BW and WAZ scores as well as higher neonatal mortality compared to multiparity.

Mother-to-Child Transmission of Andes Virus through Breast Milk, Chile1.

Andes virus (ANDV) is the only hantavirus transmitted between humans through close contact. We detected the genome and proteins of ANDV in breast milk cells from an infected mother in Chile who transmitted the virus to her child, suggesting gastrointestinal infection through breast milk as a route of ANDV person-to-person transmission.

Recomendación para disminuir el riesgo de colapso súbito e inesperado posnatal / Guidance to reduce the risk of Sudden and Unexpected Postnatal Collapse

El contacto piel a piel al nacer (COPAP) entre madres y recién nacidos a término sanos es fundamental en los estándares de la Iniciativa Hospital Amigo de la Madre y el Niño de Unicef. El COPAP inmediatamente después del nacimiento favorece la estabilidad cardiorrespiratoria, la prevalencia y duración de la lactancia materna y el vínculo madre-hijo, y disminuye el estrés materno. Existe preocupación por los casos de colapso súbito inesperado posnatal durante el COPAP con el bebé en decúbito prono sobre el torso desnudo materno. Si bien es infrecuente, evoluciona en el 50 % de los casos como evento grave de aparente amenaza a la vida y la otra mitad fallece (muerte súbita e inesperada neonatal temprana). Durante el COPAP y, al menos, las primeras 2 horas después del parto, el personal de Sala de Partos y recuperación debe observar y evaluar cualquier parámetro que implique una descompensación del bebé.

Early skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between mothers and healthy term newborns is a key part of the Unicef Baby Friendly Initiative Standards. SSC immediately after birth provides cardio-respiratory stability, improves prevalence and duration of breastfeeding, improves maternal-infant bonding and decreases maternal stress. There is a concern about cases of sudden unexpected postnatal collapse during a period of SSC with the infant prone on the mother ́s chest. Said collapse includes both severe apparent life-threatening event and sudden unexpected early neonatal death in the first week of life. Even if considered rare, consequences are serious with death in half of the cases and remaining disability in majority of the cases reported. For these reasons during SSC and for at least the first 2 hours after delivery, health care personnel in the delivery and recovery room should observe and assess for any sign of decompensation in the infant

[Guidance to reduce the risk of Sudden and Unexpected Postnatal Collapse]. / Recomendación para disminuir el riesgo de colapso súbito e inesperado posnatal.

Early skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between mothers and healthy term newborns is a key part of the Unicef Baby Friendly Initiative Standards. SSC immediately after birth provides cardiorespiratory stability, improves prevalence and duration of breastfeeding, improves maternalinfant bonding and decreases maternal stress. There is a concern about cases of sudden unexpected postnatal collapse during a period of SSC with the infant prone on the mother´s chest. Said collapse includes both severe apparent lifethreatening event and sudden unexpected early neonatal death in the first week of life. Even if considered rare, consequences are serious with death in half of the cases and remaining disability in majority of the cases reported. For these reasons during SSC and for at least the first 2 hours after delivery, health care personnel in the delivery and recovery room should observe and assess for any sign of decompensation in the infant.

entre madres y recién nacidos a término sanos es fundamental en los estándares de la Iniciativa Hospital Amigo de la Madre y el Niño de Unicef. El COPAP inmediatamente después del nacimiento favorece la estabilidad cardiorrespiratoria, la prevalencia y duración de la lactancia materna y el vínculo madrehijo, y disminuye el estrés materno. Existe preocupación por los casos de colapso súbito inesperado posnatal durante el COPAP con el bebé en decúbito prono sobre el torso desnudo materno. Si bien es infrecuente, evoluciona en el 50 % de los casos como evento grave de aparente amenaza a la vida y la otra mitad fallece (muerte súbita e inesperada neonatal temprana). Durante el COPAP y, al menos, las primeras 2 horas después del parto, el personal de Sala de Partos y recuperación debe observar y evaluar cualquier parámetro que implique una descompensación del bebé.

Center, Gestational Age, and Race Impact End-of-Life Care Practices at Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Units.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of intercenter variation and patient factors on end-of-life care practices for infants who die in regional neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using the Children's Hospital Neonatal Database during 2010-2016. A total of 6299 nonsurviving infants cared for in 32 participating regional NICUs were included to examine intercenter variation and the effects of gestational age, race, and cause of death on 3 end-of-life care practices: do not attempt resuscitation orders (DNR), cardiopulmonary resuscitation within 6 hours of death (CPR), and withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies (WLST). Factors associated with these practices were used to develop a multivariable equation. RESULTS: Dying infants in the cohort underwent DNR (55%), CPR (21%), and WLST (73%). Gestational age, cause of death, and race were significantly and differently associated with each practice: younger gestational age (<28 weeks) was associated with CPR (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.5-2.1) but not with DNR or WLST, and central nervous system injury was associated with DNR (1.6, 1.3-1.9) and WLST (4.8, 3.7-6.2). Black race was associated with decreased odds of WLST (0.7, 0.6-0.8). Between centers, practices varied widely at different gestational ages, race, and causes of death. CONCLUSIONS: From the available data on end-of-life care practices for regional NICU patients, variability appears to be either individualized or without consistency.

Aplicabilidade da Lista Brasileira de Causas de Mortes Evitáveis por intervenção do Sistema Único de Saúde, para análise de óbitos perinatais em municípios dos estados Rio de Janeiro e São Paulo, 2011 / Aplicabilidad de la Lista Brasileña de Causas de Muertes Evitables por Intervención del Sistema Único de Salud, para análisis de óbitos perinatales en municipios de los estados de Rio de Janeiro y São Paulo, Brasil, 2011 / Brasilian List of Avidable Causes of Death that can be avoided by National Health System interventions, and its applicability for analysis of perinatal deaths in municipalities in the states of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil, 2011

Resumo Objetivo avaliara aplicabilidade da Lista Brasileira de Causas de Mortes Evitáveis (LBE) na mortalidade perinatal, em maternidades públicas dos estados do Rio de Janeiro e São Paulo, 2011. Métodos estudo descritivo de série de casos com dados primários e do Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM) sobre óbitos perinatais; foi aplicada a LBE, com adaptações (códigos P20.9 e P70-74), e no Rio de Janeiro, adicionalmente, a classificação de Wigglesworth expandida (CWe). Resultados dos 98 óbitos perinatais, segundo a LBE, 61,2% seriam evitáveis, principalmente por adequada atenção à mulher na gestação; 'Causas de morte mal definidas' somaram 26,6% dos casos, principalmente óbitos fetais; pela CWe, a categoria de evitabilidade predominante no Rio Janeiro foi 'Morte fetal anteparto', relacionada a falhas no cuidado pré-natal, concordante com a LBE. Conclusão a LBE, após realocação de alguns códigos, pode melhorar a avaliação de óbitos fetais, sendo necessários estudos com maior número de participantes.

Resumen Objetivo evaluar la aplicabilidad de la Lista Brasileña de Causas de Muertes Evitables (LBE) en la mortalidad perinatal, en maternidades públicas de los Estados de Rio de Janeiro (RJ) y São Paulo (SP), 2011. Métodos estudio descriptivo de serie de casos (óbitos perinatales) con datos primarios y del Sistema de Informaciones sobre Mortalidad (SIM); se aplicó la LBE, con adaptaciones (códigos P20.9 y P70-74) para muertes fetales e, en RJ, adicionalmente, la clasificación de Wigglesworth expandida (CWe). Resultados de las 98 muertes perinatales, según la LBE, 61,2% serían evitables, principalmente por adecuada atención en la gestación; 'Causas de muerte mal definidas' sumaron 26,6%, principalmente las muertes fetales; por la CWe, la categoría predominante en RJ fue 'Muerte fetal anteparto', relacionada con fallas en la atención prenatal, lo que está de acuerdo con la LBE. Conclusión la LBE, reubicando algunos códigos, puede evaluar mejor las muertes fetales, requiriendo estudios con más participantes.

Abstract Objective to assess the applicability of the Brazilian List of Avoidable Causes of Death (BAL) to perinatal mortality in public maternity hospitals in the states of Rio de Janeiro (RJ) and São Paulo (SP) in 2011. Methods this was a descriptive case series study of perinatal deaths using primary data from the Mortality Information System; the BAL was applied, with adaptations (codes P20.9 and P70-74) and, in addition in Rio de Janeiro the Extended Wigglesworth (EW) Classification was also used. Results according to the BAL, 61.2% of the 98 perinatal deaths were avoidable, mainly by providing adequate attention to women in pregnancy; 'Ill-defined causes of death' accounted for 26.6% of cases, mainly fetal deaths; use of EW in RJ indicated that the 'Antepartum Fetal Death' category was predominant and was related to inadequate prenatal care; this was in line with the BAL. Conclusions after reallocating some codes, the BAL can improve fetal death evaluation, whereby studies with a larger number of participants are needed.

Onfalite associada a pneumonia embólica em neonatos caninos / Omphalitis associated with embolic pneumonia in canine neonates

não hemorrágica, mucosa oral cianótica e dispneia intensa 48 horas após o nascimento. Apesar dos cuidados de suporte, os filhotes morreram e foram submetidos à necropsia. Na avaliação anatomopatológica, foi diagnosticada onfalite bacteriana supurativa em todos os animais, caracterizada macroscopicamente por aumento de volume em região umbilical, e, microscopicamente, por infiltrado inflamatório neutrofílico e necrose, associado a numerosas colônias bacterianas intralesionais. Pneumonia intersticial multifocal a coalescente com necrose alveolar e grande quantidade de colônias bacterianas intralesionais foi diagnosticada em todos os filhotes, morfologia típica de pneumonia embólica. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae e Klebsiella ozaenae e Bacillus cereus foram isolados dos fragmentos pulmonares. Este caso demonstra a associação entre onfalite e pneumonia. Falhas nos cuidados neonatais podem ocasionar infecção bacteriana generalizada e elevada mortalidade. A antissepssia do umbigo deve ser realizada logo após o nascimento a fim de reduzir os casos de onfalite e consequentemente a mortalidade neonatal.(AU)

Four canine neonates, that were born in poor hygiene condition, presented prostration, nonhemorrhagic diarrhea, cyanotic oral mucous membranes, and intense dyspnea 48 hours after the birth. Despite supportive care, the animals died and were necropsied. Anatomopathological examination revealed suppurative bacterial omphalitis in all animals, macroscopically characterized by umbilicus enlargement and, microscopically, by neutrophilic inflammatory infiltrate and necrosis, associated with intralesional bacterial colonies. Multifocal to coalescent interstitial pneumonia with alveolar necrosis and numerous intralesional bacterial colonies was diagnosed in all neonates, morphologically suggestive of embolic pneumonia. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella ozaenae and Bacillus cereus, were isolated from lung tissue samples. This case demonstrates the association between omphalitis and pneumonia. Inappropriate neonatal care can predispose neonates to generalized bacterial infection and death. Therefore, umbilical cord treatment should be performed immediately after birth to reduce neonatal mortality.(AU)

Onfalite associada a pneumonia embólica em neonatos caninos / Omphalitis associated with embolic pneumonia in canine neonates

não hemorrágica, mucosa oral cianótica e dispneia intensa 48 horas após o nascimento. Apesar dos cuidados de suporte, os filhotes morreram e foram submetidos à necropsia. Na avaliação anatomopatológica, foi diagnosticada onfalite bacteriana supurativa em todos os animais, caracterizada macroscopicamente por aumento de volume em região umbilical, e, microscopicamente, por infiltrado inflamatório neutrofílico e necrose, associado a numerosas colônias bacterianas intralesionais. Pneumonia intersticial multifocal a coalescente com necrose alveolar e grande quantidade de colônias bacterianas intralesionais foi diagnosticada em todos os filhotes, morfologia típica de pneumonia embólica. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae e Klebsiella ozaenae e Bacillus cereus foram isolados dos fragmentos pulmonares. Este caso demonstra a associação entre onfalite e pneumonia. Falhas nos cuidados neonatais podem ocasionar infecção bacteriana generalizada e elevada mortalidade. A antissepssia do umbigo deve ser realizada logo após o nascimento a fim de reduzir os casos de onfalite e consequentemente a mortalidade neonatal.

Four canine neonates, that were born in poor hygiene condition, presented prostration, nonhemorrhagic diarrhea, cyanotic oral mucous membranes, and intense dyspnea 48 hours after the birth. Despite supportive care, the animals died and were necropsied. Anatomopathological examination revealed suppurative bacterial omphalitis in all animals, macroscopically characterized by umbilicus enlargement and, microscopically, by neutrophilic inflammatory infiltrate and necrosis, associated with intralesional bacterial colonies. Multifocal to coalescent interstitial pneumonia with alveolar necrosis and numerous intralesional bacterial colonies was diagnosed in all neonates, morphologically suggestive of embolic pneumonia. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella ozaenae and Bacillus cereus, were isolated from lung tissue samples. This case demonstrates the association between omphalitis and pneumonia. Inappropriate neonatal care can predispose neonates to generalized bacterial infection and death. Therefore, umbilical cord treatment should be performed immediately after birth to reduce neonatal mortality.

Neonatal mortality in Luanda, Angola: what can be done to reduce it? / Mortalidade neonatal em Luanda, Angola: o que pode ser feito para sua redução?

INTRODUCTION: One of the main health indicators is infant mortality rate, which is a metric of living conditions and population development. The goal of reducing neonatal mortality requires an adequate knowledge of the real factors at each level of health care so that maternal and human resources are efficiently channeled to the constraint. Countries that have paid special attention to improving health services for the entire pregnancy-puerperal cycle have attained the reduction of infant mortality, especially early neonatal mortality. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to describe the profile and analyze the risk factors associated with neonatal mortality in the Angolan context at a tertiary level public maternity hospital, located in Luanda. METHODS: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach, using secondary data, of provincial base in hospital and ministerial registry instruments from January to December 2012. RESULTS: The results show that the neonatal deaths are not mere occurrences, since they indicate failures of the political powers, professionals of the health system and of the families. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that the major risk factor for birth mortality in Luanda is the type of delivery (c-section) and that this data is not related to the age of the mother or to premature birth. We also found that there was higher mortality between May and July, during the period of lower rainfall index in the region. However, further studies are needed that may provide a logical framework and arguments for realistic policies to mitigate neonatal mortality.

INTRODUÇÃO: Um dos principais indicadores de saúde é a taxa de mortalidade infantil, que é uma métrica de condições de vida e desenvolvimento populacional. A redução da mortalidade neonatal requer um conhecimento adequado dos fatores reais em cada nível de atenção à saúde, de modo que os recursos maternos e humanos sejam eficientemente avaliados. Os países que deram atenção especial à melhoria dos serviços de saúde para todo o ciclo gravídico-puerperal atingiram a redução da mortalidade infantil, especialmente a mortalidade neonatal precoce. OBJETIVO: O presente estudo tem como objetivo descrever o perfil e analisar os fatores de risco associados à mortalidade neonatal em uma maternidade pública de nível terciário localizada em Luanda, Angola. MÉTODO: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo de corte transversal com abordagem quantitativa, utilizando dados secundários de base provincial em instrumentos de registro hospitalar e ministerial de janeiro a dezembro de 2012. RESULTADOS: Os resultados mostram que os óbitos neonatais não são meras ocorrências, pois indicam falhas dos poderes políticos, de profissionais do sistema de saúde e das famílias. CONSLUSÃO: Este estudo sugere que o maior fator de risco para mortalidade ao nascimento em Luanda é o tipo de parto (c-section) e que este dado não está relacionado com a idade da mãe ou com o nascimento prematuro. Identificamos também que houve maior mortalidade entre os meses de maio a julho, durante o período de menor índice de chuvas na região. No entanto, são necessários mais estudos que possam fornecer um quadro lógico e argumentos para políticas realistas para mitigar a mortalidade neonatal.