Abstract:
Background: The APGAR scoring system is a comprehensive screening tool to evaluate a newborn’s condition at birth. Low APGAR scores in the childbirth period increased risk globally and significantly contributes to both newborn morbidity and mortality. So, identifying the associated factors of the low fifth minute APGAR score contribute early detection of risk factor and timely intervention to address those factor may improve neonatal out come at birth.
Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of low fifth minute APGAR score and its associated factors among singleton babies born in public Health facilities, Woliso town. from the month of August 26,2022 up to October 25 2022.
Methods: An institution based cross sectional study design was conducted among 392 new born babies delivered at public health facilities in woliso town. Structured questionnaire and chart reviews were used to collect the data. The collected data were entered in to EPI INFO version 7 and exported to SPSS version 25 software package for analysis. Descriptive statistics was performed to see the frequency and percentage of the variables. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression model were used to assess the relationship between the dependent and independent variable. Text, tables and chart were used to present the result.
Result: In this study the magnitude of singleton neonate’s low fifth minute APGAR score was 16.1%. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (AOR = 15.29 (95% CI (6.41-36.47)), Breech fetal presentation (AOR =8.91 (95% CI (3.25-24.44)). Pre-eclampsia (AOR: 5.96 (95% CI (2.24-15.88)) vacuum deliver (AOR= 3.26 (95% CI (1.17-9.12), Augmentation of labor (AOR =3.73 (95% CI (1.18-11.81)). and ANC follow up (AOR =.088 (95% CI (.016–.479)) were predictor variable that showed associated with a low APGAR score at fifth minute.
Conclusion and Recommendations: This study concluded that the magnitudes of singleton neonates low fifth minute APGAR scores were high. Obstetrical factors like presence of Meconium stained amniotic fluid, Breech fetal presentation, pre-eclampsia, vacuum delivery, Augmentation of labour and ANC follow up were significantly associated with a low fifth minute APGAR score. Early identification and adequate management of risk factors during labour and delivery. Women should continue the recommended number of ANC follow up would be recommended.
