WEIGHT GAIN STATUS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG PRETERM NEONATES ADMITTED TO NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNITS IN SPECIALIZED HOSPITALS OF AMHARA REGION, ETHIOPIA, 2022

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Weight gain in the neonatal period starts after first week of life, and most newborns gain weight at a similar manner. Although clinical guidelines state that preterm neonates

gain weight at 15-20 grams per kilo gram per day, weight gain in different circumstances is not

well understood. In low- and middle-income countries, the burden of poor neonatal growth is

high and weight gain of preterm neonates in the neonatal intensive care units is influenced by

different factors.

Objective: To assess weight gain status and associated factors among preterm neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units in comprehensive specialized hospitals of Amhara region, Ethiopia, 2022 Methods: Institution based cross sectional study among 363 preterm neonates in neonatal intensive care units of comprehensive specialized hospitals of Amhara region was employed from October 1 to November 10/2022. Data were collected by using Kobo Tool Box prepared data collection sheets and questionnaire. Weight of selected neonates was recorded daily for three consecutive days. Stata version 16 was used, and descriptive results are presented using tables, figures, and texts. Weight gain status of preterm neonates was determined as poor and adequate weight gain. Bivariable and multivariable analysis was performed. P value < 0.05 at 95% CI and AOR were used to declare associations with the dependent variable. Result: A total of 363 preterm neonates paired with their mothers were included in this study and the response rate was 99%. The proportion of preterm neonates with poor weight gain in the neonatal intensive care units was 80.8% (95% CI, 76.74, 84.91), and the following variables were significantly associated; older maternal age AOR = 2.83 (95% CI, 1.23, 6.25), delayed starting of enteral feeding AOR = 3.76 (95% CI, 1.50, 9.42), not getting kangaroo mother care AOR = 3.08 (95% CI, 1.28, 7.43) and no or only one antenatal care visits AOR = 5.69 (95% CI, 1.27, 26.01) and AOR 5.8 (95% CI 1.30, 25.54) respectively. Conclusion & recommendation: The proportion of preterm neonates with poor weight gain was very high. Older maternal age, less than two antenatal care visits, delayed starting of enteral feeding and not getting kangaroo mother care were significantly associated variables. Kangaroo mother care practices for preterm neonates and monitoring early enteral feedings may help in maintaining weight gain of preterm neonates during hospitalization. Key words: Preterm neonates, Weight gain, NICU, Amhara region, Ethiopia