ASSESSMENT OF NEONATAL SEPSIS AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS ON 70 NEONATES AT DJOUNGOLO DISTRICT HOSPITAL OLEMBE YAOUNDE

Abstract: Introduction: Neonatal sepsis remains a critical public health issue and a leading
cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This
study was conducted to assess neonatal sepsis and its associated factors among 70 neonates
admitted at the Djoungolo District Hospital, Olembe, Yaoundé.
Materials and methods: A hospital-based descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was
conducted over a period of two months, involving a total of 70 neonates aged 0–28 days.
Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to mothers, clinical
examinations, and a review of hospital records.
Results: The results showed that the majority of neonates were aged 0–7 days and a significant
proportion were diagnosed with neonatal sepsis. The prevalence rate observed reflects the
persistent burden of this condition in primary healthcare settings. Analysis revealed associations
between neonatal sepsis and several maternal factors (such as inadequate antenatal care,
premature rupture of membranes, maternal infections), neonatal factors (such as low birth
weight, prematurity, low Apgar scores), and healthcare-related factors (such as poor hygiene
practices and exposure to invasive procedures).
Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of early detection, improved maternal
care, and adherence to infection prevention protocols to reduce the incidence of neonatal sepsis.