Determinants of Extended Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Stay

Background: Prolonged hospitalization in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) escalates healthcare costs and potentially exposes neonates to further complications. This study aimed to identify the significant predictors influencing the length of stay (LOS) in the NICU at Hermina Hospital, Sukabumi, with the potential to facilitate efficient resource optimization and improve the future of neonatal care. Methods: Employing a retrospective cohort design, we reviewed the medical records of all neonatal admissions from July 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023. Length of stay was evaluated against several factors: gender, birth weight, delivery method, maternal pregnancy status, pregnancy comorbidities, place of birth, and Apgar score. This study computed the descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 29, with linear regression models aiding in bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results: Among the 156 samples, birth weight and Apgar score emerged as significantly associated with LOS (p-values 0.003 and 0.015, respectively), whereas the other predictors did not reveal a significant association. T-test outcomes suggested a partial impact on birth weight and Apgar score (t-values surpassing the critical t-value, with respective p-values < 0.001 and 0.014). Multiple regression analysis further indicated that all predictors collectively explained 19.3% of the LOS variation. Conclusion: Our findings underscore the significant contribution of birth weight and Apgar score to prolonged NICU stays. They provide valuable insights into the factors influencing NICU length of stay and the potential for improving neonatal outcomes through adequate neonatal resuscitation. Moreover, the study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted programs to reduce preterm delivery and intrauterine growth retardation, inspiring action and change in the field of neonatal care.