Neonatal outcomes in a level II regional neonatal intensive care unit

Background Improvement of neonatal mortality is a challenge in developing countries such as Iraq due to increased demand and overload of maternity services. The aim of this study was to document the number, disease patterns and outcome of admitted newborns and the improvement after implementation of clinical protocols, and to identify possible future target measures. Method A descriptive study was conducted at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a regional hospital from 2011 to 2013. Of 72 320 deliveries, 4694 newborns were admitted and met selection criteria. Clinical guidelines, clinical skills training of nurses and resident doctors, and improvement of medical records were implemented during the study period. All patient demographics, causes of admission/death and mortality were analyzed. Results From a total of 4694 admitted newborns; 42% were delivered vaginally, 60% were male, 43% were