Characterizing critical vs non critical neonatal emergencies risk factors and outcomes in Pakistan: A tertiary center experience

Background: Neonatal emergencies significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality in developing countries. This study aimed to analyze neonatal emergencies presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) of a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan and assess resource utilization. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted reviewing medical charts of 1,403 neonates who visited the ED at Aga Khan Hospital during 2019. Data collected included demographics, presenting complaints, clinical characteristics, resource utilization, and outcomes. Results: Of 1,403 neonates, 463 (33%) were critically ill and 940 (67%) were non-critical. Critical neonates were younger (median 5 vs 6 days), had lower birth weight (median 2.7 vs 2.8 kg), and were more likely to be premature (