Care practices during neonatal period for preterm babies in Kisii teaching and referral hospital, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Preterm birth is a global problem with the greatest burden experienced in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. In Kenya it is estimatedthat 12.3/100 live births are born preterm and prematurity is the leading cause of death in the first month of life, contributing to 35% of all neonatal mortality. In high income countries survival rate for preterm babies has increased due to offering care that is evidence based. However, in middle and low income countries the uptake of desired practices is low leading to poor outcomes. The aim of the study was to describe the care practices for preterm babies during the neonatal period in Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital(KTRH)