DefinePK

Research Objective

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of infants born to diabetic mothers (IDMs) in a tertiary care hospital in Bahawalpur, Pakistan.

Methodology

A descriptive study conducted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur. 100 neonates born to mothers with gestational or pre-gestational diabetes were included using non-probability consecutive sampling. Data on maternal glycemic control, delivery details, and neonatal outcomes were collected. Blood samples were analyzed for glucose, calcium, hematocrit, and bilirubin levels. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.25.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD;
    A[Ethical Approval & Informed Consent] --> B[Data Collection: Maternal & Neonatal Data];
    B --> C[Blood Sample Collection];
    C --> D[Laboratory Analysis: Glucose, Calcium, Hematocrit, Bilirubin];
    D --> E[Documentation of Clinical Outcomes];
    E --> F[Data Analysis using SPSS v.25];
    F --> G[Reporting of Results];                    

Discussion

Infants of diabetic mothers are at increased risk of metabolic complications due to maternal hyperglycemia affecting fetal development. The study's findings on hypoglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia, polycythemia, and macrosomia align with previous research, emphasizing the importance of stringent maternal glycemic control during pregnancy. Early identification and management of these complications are crucial for improving neonatal outcomes.

Key Findings

Hypoglycemia was the most common complication (63.8%), followed by hyperbilirubinemia (57.4%), hypocalcemia (43%), polycythemia (35%), and macrosomia (15%). A significant association was found between maternal glycemic control and neonatal complications, with poor control correlating with higher rates of hypoglycemia, polycythemia, and macrosomia.

Conclusion

Infants of diabetic mothers exhibit a high prevalence of metabolic complications, underscoring the necessity of early detection and management. Maternal glycemic control is a critical factor in preventing adverse neonatal outcomes. Standardized protocols for monitoring and managing IDMs can significantly enhance neonatal health. Further multicenter research with larger sample sizes is recommended.

Fact Check

- The study included 100 neonates. (Confirmed in Methodology and Results)
- Hypoglycemia was the most common complication at 63.8%. (Confirmed in Results)
- The mean gestational age of neonates was 37 ± 2.1 weeks. (Confirmed in Results)

Mind Map