Frequency of Hypoglycemia and Hypothermia amongst Newborns Admitted at Pediatrics Emergency of CLF Larkana

Hypoglycemia and Hypothermia Amongst Newborns

Abstract

Neonatal hypoglycemia is a prevalent metabolic disorder associated with acute neurological issues and long-term developmental complications. Objectives: To assess the frequency of hypoglycemia and hypothermia among newborns admitted to the Neonatal Emergency Department at Child Life Foundation (CLF), Larkana. Methods: The study, conducted from August 15, 2022, to February 15, 2024, involved 200 neonates of both genders in the Neonatal Emergency Department of CLF, SMBBMU, Larkana. Comprehensive demographic and clinical data—including age, gender, delivery mode, birth location, and maternal residence were collected. Axillary temperature was measured using a sterilized thermometer, and capillary glucose was assessed at five intervals (2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours’ post-birth) before feeding using an Accu-Chek Glucometer. Results: In a study of 200 newborns, the average age was 3.2 ± 2.4 days, with a mean height of 48.3 ± 7.3 cm, weight of 2.7 ± 0.8 kg, and gestational age of 39.6 ± 6.3 weeks. Most participants were female, and 42.5% were appropriate for gestational age. Cesarean section was the most frequent delivery method (48%). Hypoglycemia occurred in 16% of cases, while hypothermia was more common, affecting 47.5% of newborns. Hypothermia showed significant associations with lower height (p=0.008), weight, gestational age, and cesarean/instrumental deliveries. Hypoglycemia was significantly linked to low birth weight, with gestational age and delivery location showing borderline significance. Gender and age had no notable effects. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Conclusions: Hypothermia was more frequent than hypoglycemia among the admitted neonates. Further research is needed to validate and expand on these findings.