EPIDEMIOLOGY OF RESPIRATORY DISTRESS IN PRETERM NEWBORNS ADMITTED WITH RESPIRATORY DISTRESS IN NICU: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Background:Respiratory distress is one of the most common cause of newborns admitting to NICUs. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to examine the epidemiological profile of preterm neonates with respiratory distress in the NICU. It was carried out from August 2023 to July 2024 at Akash institute of medical sciences and research centre, Devanahalli, Bengaluru Rural. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 42 neonates under the age of 28 days. Respiratory distress was diagnosed using specific criteria, and detailed clinical assessments were performed to confirm the aetiology. Data on demographics, risk factors, and therapeutic modalities were collected and analysed using SPSS version 25. Results: A total number of 81 neonates are admitted in NICU for respiratory distress, 42 cases were preterm. In those preterm ,late preterm babies 33(79%) had respiratory distress, followed by moderate preterm 5(12%). Males, 23(54.76%) were more prone for respiratory distress compared to females, 19 (45.24%). LSCS ,34 (80.95%)was the major cause for respiratory distress. All cases required oxygen supportbut oxygen prongs was given to 23(54.76%) cases, CPAP was given to 16 (38.05%) cases, 3(7.14%) were mechanically ventilated. Low birth weight infants,24(57%) weremore prone for respiratory distress compared to very low birth weight 11(26%) and extreme low birth weight infants 1 (3%). 15 (35.71%) cases were not having any risk factors but 9 (21.42%) had PIH. TTNB, in 19(45.23%) cases was the most common aetiology for causing respiratory distress. Conclusion: This study underscores the necessity for heightened awareness and specialized care protocols for preterm neonates, particularly those born via LSCS and those with low birth weight, to mitigate the risks and improve outcomes associated with respiratory distress.