Point of Admission Hypothermia and Its Correlates Among Hospitalized Neonates at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Neonatal hypothermia is a preventable cause of mortality, but its burden is poorly researched.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of point of admission hypothermia, causes and outcome among hospitalized neonates.

Methods: This is a retrospective study conducted among neonates aged 0–28 days admitted into the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, from 1st January to 30^th June 2025. Data was extracted from the case folders using a structured proforma; the data included socio-demographic information, gestational age and anthropometrics. Admission axillary temperature was measured using a low-reading axillary mercury thermometer and was classified according to WHO thresholds.

Results: Of the 258 neonates admitted within the study period, 230 (89.1%) had records of temperature measurement. They comprised 149 (64.8%) males and 81 (35.2%) females. The mean admission temperature was 37.0±1.2°C (range: 33.0-42.0°C). Point of admission hypothermia was recorded in 68 (29.6%) neonates, of which 44 (64.7%) were mild, 24 (35.3%) were moderate but none was severe. Common diagnoses associated with hypothermia included birth asphyxia (34; 43.0%), prematurity (19; 50%) and neonatal sepsis (6; 9.5%). Hypothermia was significantly associated with low birth weight (p = 0.03), diagnosis at admission (p = 0.001) and poor outcome (p = 0.002). There were 5 (2.2%) mortalities, and all of them had hypothermia.

Conclusion: Point-of-admission hypothermia occurred in about a third of neonates admitted. Asphyxia and prematurity were the leading conditions associated with hypothermia. Hypothermia was also associated with increased risk of mortality.