Prevalence and Associated Factors of Jaundice Among Neonates Admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units at Public Specialized Hospitals in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Background . Neonatal jaundice is more common and complicated in low and middle-income countries. However, there is no adequate evidences on the prevalence of neonatal jaundice and associated factors in Ethiopia. Methods . An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 15 April to 15 June 2021 among 340 neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at public specialized hospitals in Bahir Dar city. Results . The prevalence of neonatal jaundice was found to be 38.8%. Conclusion . The prevalence of neonatal jaundice was relatively high. Being male, prematurity, maternal Rh negative, neonatal Rh positive, maternal blood type AB, and ABO incompatibility were predictor variables of neonatal jaundice. Therefore, healthcare facilities in Bahir Dar city should provide opportunities for testing blood groups and Rh factors of all women early during antenatal care follow-up. Moreover, the treatment of neonatal jaundice has to be easily accessible in all primary health care units of the district.