Neonatal resuscitation knowledge and its determinants among healthcare professionals at Asella referral and teaching hospital, Southeast Ethiopia

Neonatal mortality remains a major global health concern, with birth asphyxia responsible for nearly one-quarter of these deaths. Effective and timely neonatal resuscitation by skilled healthcare providers is crucial for improving survival rates. However, knowledge gaps about neonatal resuscitation persist, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to evaluate healthcare professionals' knowledge of neonatal resuscitation and identify factors associated with adequate knowledge. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Asella Referral and Teaching Hospital from April to May 2023 among 231 healthcare professionals. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with knowledge levels, with a statistical significance level set at p < 0.05. Out of 231 participants, 220 completed the questionnaire, yielding a 95.2% response rate. Only 16.8% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge of neonatal resuscitation. Factors significantly associated with adequate knowledge included having received neonatal resuscitation training (AOR=5.39; 95% CI: 1.44–20.20), male gender (AOR=5.80; 95% CI: 1.16–29.09), professional category (AOR=8.94; 95% CI: 1.36–58.68), receipt of supportive supervision (AOR=3.39; 95% CI: 1.01–11.43), and a positive attitude towards neonatal resuscitation (AOR=5.36; 95% CI: 1.52–18.87). This study identified a significant gap in neonatal resuscitation knowledge among healthcare professionals. Key determinants of knowledge included training, professional role, gender, supportive supervision, and attitude. Strengthening competencies through regular in-service training, supportive supervision, and simulation-based learning is essential. Additionally, integrating neonatal resuscitation into pre-service education curricula is recommended to build sustainable competencies and reduce neonatal mortality.