ASSESSMENT OF VARIOUS PREDICTORS FOR POSITIVE BLOOD CULTURE SUBJECTS WITH NEONATAL SEPSIS IN INDIA

Abstract

Background: Diagnosis of sepsis is a challenging process in developing nations such as India due to varying clinical
presentation and unreliable diagnostic markers making it vital to identify various clinical presentations and predictors that
can be helpful in the detection of early neonatal sepsis, particularly with the blood culture results.
Aim: The present study aimed to assess various predictors responsible for neonatal sepsis for the identification of
laboratory parameters and clinical factors that might be helpful in early identification and sepsis diagnosis facilitating
targeted treatment and improved outcomes.
Methods: The study assessed 540 subjects who were suspected or had a clinical diagnosis of neonatal sepsis and were
admitted to the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) of the institute. In all subjects, laboratory parameters assessed were
complete blood count (CBC), CRP (C-reactive protein), and blood culture effects. Outcomes assessed were support
needed in the ICU (intensive care unit), mortality rate, and hospital stay duration. Results of positive blood culture were
also evaluated to confirm the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.