Impact of Tele-Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) Clinics on the Respiratory Outcomes of Newborns.

Objectives: To assess the respiratory outcomes of newborns receiving Kangaroo mother care (KMC) in remote units of Chhattisgarh, India by providing telementoring to medical staff and parents.

Methods: In 2022, this comparative study was carried out at one SNCU in Chhattisgarh, India. The study consisted of gathering data before intervention and utilizing video call technology for remote mentoring to encourage KMC among both staff and parents. Quality improvement initiatives were executed under supervision. Subsequently, data on mortality and morbidity was collected and compared with pre-intervention data.

Results: The KMC rate increased from 4.5% to 100% by the end of 2022 and remained consistent in 2023. The median latency for starting KMC decreased to 0 d. Long KMC for more than 8 h was seen in 61.4% of babies who received KMC. Oxygen usage dropped from 93.4% to 39.8%. The median days of respiratory support decreased from 3 d to 0 d. The incidence of apnea reduced from 30.3% to 13%. Total adverse outcomes [death, leave-against-medical-advice (LAMA) and referral] reduced from 35.8% (n = 95) to 18.3% (n = 62) (p < 0.05) [Relative Risk (RR): 0.51; 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.39-0.67] CONCLUSIONS: Using telemedicine technology for promotion and maintenance of KMC is an effective approach to decrease the mortality rate, morbidity rate, and overall cost of care for newborns who are admitted to SNCUs located remotely.