Background :
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) of neonates is one of the most common causes of neonatal mortality.
Objective :
The purpose of this study was to investigate socio-demographic, maternal, and neonatal factors related to RDS in neonates in the context of a tertiary-level hospital.
Methods :
This cross-sectional study was conducted in Dhaka Medical College Hospital and Ad-din Women’s Medical College and Hospital from 1st January to 31st December 2017 among 186 purposively selected neonates. Data were collected by document review and face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire and checklist.
Results :
Regarding socio-demographic factors, most mothers (61.3%) had received four or more antenatal checkups, and 87.1% had institutional delivery. Approximately 52.7% had caesarean delivery.
Among maternal risk factors, 17.2% had hypertension, 10.8% had diabetes mellitus, 14% had oligohydramnios, and 37.1% had premature rupture of membranes (PROM).
RDS was more common in preterm neonates (<37 weeks, 85.5%) and in low birth weight babies (<2500 g, 90.3%). About 28% were from multiple pregnancies. Common clinical features included grunting (62.4%) and chest recession (92.5%).
Conclusion :
Although the risk factors for RDS are largely non-preventable, they are predictable with proper antenatal care. Early identification of at-risk pregnancies can help in timely diagnosis and management, thereby reducing neonatal mortality.