Dataset: Availability and functionality of neontal care units in health facilities

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Date

2022-07-21

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Abstract

Background Evidence shows that delivery of prompt and appropriate in-patient newborn care (IPNC) through health facility (HF)-based neonatal care and stabilization units (NCU/NSUs) reduce preventable newborn mortalities (NMs). This study investigated the HFs for the availability and performance of NCU/NSUs in providing quality IPNC, as well as an investigation of influencing factors in Mtwara region, Tanzania. Results About 70.6% (12/17) of surveyed HFs had at least one NCU/NSU room dedicated for delivery of IPNC, and 74.7% (3,600/4,819) of needy newborns were admitted/transferred in for management. Essential medicines such as tetracycline eye ointment was unavailable in 75% (3/4) of the district hospitals (DHs). A disparity existed between the availability and functioning of equipment including infant radiant warmers (92% vs 73%). Governance, support from implementing patterns (IPs), and access to healthcare commodities were identified from qualitative inquiries as factors influencing the establishment and running of NCUs/NSUs at the HFs in Mtwara region, Tanzania. Conclusion Despite the positive progress, the establishment and performance of NCUs/NSUs in providing quality IPNC in HFs in Mtwara has lagged behind the Tanzania neonatal care guideline standards, particularly after the IPs of newborn health interventions completed their terms in 2016. This study suggests additional improvement plans for Mtwara region and other comparable settings to optimize the provision of quality IPNC and lower avoidable NMs. Notes

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG-3: Good Health and Well-Being

Keywords

Neonatal care units, Neonatal Stabilization Units, Health Facility, In-patient newborn care, Newborn mortality, Functionality

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