Neonatal Respiratory Distress: Prospective Observational Study

Respiratory distress immediately after birth is common and is usually caused by abnormal respiratory function during the adaptation from foetal to neonatal life. It is manifested by nasal flaring, intercostal or subcostal retractions, audible grunting, and cyanosis. Neonatal respiratory distress may be transient; respiratory distress is a common cause of morbidity and mortality. However, persistent distress requires a rational diagnostic and therapeutic approach to optimise outcomes and minimise morbidity. This study was conducted to study the prevalence, risk factors, causes, and immediate clinical outcomes for respiratory distress in neonates in tertiary care centres.