Abstract:

Background: Neonatal sepsis is a huge threat to the survival of neonates. If not timely detected and treated, neonatal sepsis becomes the source of increased neonatal morbidity and mortality. Research shows that neonatal sepsis is a global problem. However, the burden weighs more heavily in sub-Saharan Africa. Zambia stands unspared by this problem because of home deliveries in rural communities.

Objective: The study objective was to investigate contributory factors responsible for neonatal sepsis at Kaoma District Hospital, Zambia.

Materials and Methods: The research used a cross-sectional study design. The sample size was 50 selected using convenient sampling. The study units consisted of 50 Post natal mothers. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 was used to analyse data.

Results: The study found a triangulated relationship: maternal socio-cultural practices, place of delivery and shortage of midwives with emergence of neonatal sepsis.

Recommendations: The study recommends training of more midwives to handle an increased number of pregnant women seeking assisted skilled delivery. The study also recommends for expanded EmONC and neonatal care workshops for equipping midwives and nurses with knowledge and skills to handle neonatal sepsis.

Finally, the study recommends for community sensitization on socio-cultural endanger maternal and neonatal wellbeing.

Keywords: neonate, sepsis, midwives, nurses, morbidity, mortality.

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