Clinical-epidemiological profile of preterm infants into the Kangaroo Method

The study aimed to analyze the clinical-epidemiological profile of preterm infants with low birth weight admitted to the Kangaroo Method program at a reference maternal-infant hospital in Belém-PA, from January 2020 to January 2021. This descriptive, quantitative, and documental study reviewed 159 patient records of newborns, including 100 records of infants weighing less than 2,500g. Data were collected using a structured form containing information on maternal anamnesis, pre-, peri-, and post-natal care history, and details regarding the first, second, and third stages of the Kangaroo Method, as well as discharge-related outcomes. Among the findings, 51% of the mothers were male, 51% were aged between 18 and 27 years, and only 12% underwent more than six prenatal consultations. Urinary tract infections were reported in 46% of cases, while 91% of births occurred between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. Cesarean delivery was predominant (70%), and 84% of newborns experienced acute respiratory distress, with 71% presenting acute respiratory distress syndrome. Regarding humanization procedures, 68% received skin-to-skin contact prescriptions. The analysis highlights the importance of understanding maternal-infant clinical-epidemiological characteristics to mitigate risks associated with pregnancy and prematurity. Additionally, the Kangaroo Method proved effective in minimizing the consequences of prematurity, fostering weight gain and improving hospitalization outcomes.