Original Article
Maternal factors associated with immediate low Apgar score in newborn babies at an intermediate hospital in Northern Namibia
Submitted: 11 April 2024 | Published: 07 September 2022
About the author(s)
Justina Lungameni, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of Namibia, Windhoek, NamibiaEmma Maano Nghitanwa, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
Laura Uusiku, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
Abel Karera, School of Allied Health, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
Full Text:
PDF (1MB)Abstract
Background. All newborn infants are required to undergo the Apgar score/assessment immediately after birth and again at five minutes. This vital examination is performed to determine how well the infant is adjusting to the birthing process and the outside environment. Some newborns may have a normal Apgar score, while others may have a low score. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with low Apgar scores among newborns at an intermediate hospital in Northern Namibia.
Objective. To identify maternal factors associated with an immediate low Apgar score in newborns at an intermediate hospital in Northern Namibia and to examine the association between maternal factors and an immediate low Apgar score. Quantitative, retrospective, descriptive research methodology was employed. A document review checklist was utilized to collect data at Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital between August 2020 and October 2020.
Results. Gravidity (p0.021), parity (p0.029), haemoglobin after the first ante-natal care visit (p0.011), antepartum haemorrhage (APH) (p0.004), membrane status (p0.000), duration of labour (p0.000), type of delivery (p0.000), and caesarean section type and indication (p0.000) were found to be associated with an immediate low Apgar score.
Conclusions: The study identified maternal factors that influence an infant’s initial low Apgar score. Strengthen maternal health education regarding gravidity and parity, diet, and recognizing danger signs during pregnancy. In addition, strict monitoring of patients with a partograph, cardiotocography, accurate record keeping, and prompt referral of patients with risk factors is strongly advised.
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Crossref Citations
1. Comparative Analysis of Neonatal Effects in Pregnant Women with Cardiovascular Risk versus Low-Risk Pregnant Women
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Journal of Clinical Medicine vol: 12 issue: 12 first page: 4082 year: 2023
doi: 10.3390/jcm12124082