Predictors of factors affecting rate of change of temperature of preterm/LBW neonates from delivery to admission to NICU: Use of a continuous temperature monitoring device (Helyxon fever watch)

Background Hypothermia is an important contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality, more so in the preterm and extreme low birth weight infants. Methods Study was conducted over a period of 3 months from 1st January to 31st March 2018 with an aim of evaluating rate of change of temperature of newborn neonates from delivery to NICU admission and factors effecting rate of change of temperature in these neonates. A unique compact continuous temperature monitoring device was used for this study. Temperature changes in the baby were monitored with a help of smart phone where temperature is updated every 5 s. Results Thirty neonates with mean gestation of 31 ± 3 weeks were enrolled for study. Mean temperature at admission to NICU was 35.34 ± 0.74 °C. There was no temperature loss while stabilization of neonate under radiant warmer or during transport to NICU. Maximum temperature loss happened before baby reached to radiant warmer. Delivery room temperature and gestation were found to be most important factors effecting admission temperature to NICU. Conclusion Significant proportion of neonates after birth is hypothermic at admission to NICU. Low delivery room temperature and prematurity are associated with neonatal hypothermia. Implementing WHO recommendation of increasing delivery room temperature to 25 °C and above can help in reducing the incidence of neonatal hypothermia.