Implementation of A Perinatal Problem Identification Program (PPIP) In Zambia: A Feasibility Study

Abstract Background: Zambia is among the African countries with a high perinatal mortality rate. Though programs teaching medical practitioners about advanced neonatal resuscitation have reduced deaths and improved survival, more information is needed to further decrease morbidity and mortality in newborns. The objectives of this study was to implement a Perinatal Problem Identification Program (PPIP) to improve collection of information on early and late neonatal mortalities. Methods: The Perinatal Problem Identification Program was implemented in the Neonatal intensive Care unit of the Women and Newborn Hospital in Lusaka Zambia. The program started on 1 May 2019 and ended on 31 December 2019. Data entry was conducted and analysis was undertaken using the PPIP computer based software program. The PPIP software calculated neonatal deaths and their causes. Results : The Neonatal intensive care unit at women and newborn hospital recorded a total of 2640 deaths in 7 months from May 1 st 2019 to 31 st December 2019.The highest cause of death was prematurity with its complications at 126 (54%) in the sampled 238 recorded deaths. Followed by infection at 46 (19%) and hypoxia at 44 (18%). These deaths ranged from birth weights of less than 1000 grams to more than 2500 grams. Conclusion: The results reveal that it is possible to implement PPIP in Zambia and its use eases the audit review process, which combined with audit review meetings can improve the quality of care of neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit.