Neonatal infection is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in newborn babies and accounts for 8% of all neonatal mortality. Infection can lead to life-threatening sepsis. Without quick treatment, sepsis can lead to serious complications including organ failure and potential risk of death. ​Early onset neonatal sepsis is associated with poor outcomes. Survivors also remain at risk of slower growth and impacted neurological development. We need to be able to identify potential risk factors and recognise the signs of infection in the newborn baby as early as possible so that appropriate management is undertaken and complications are avoided.

This module provides a general overview of neonatal infection, some specific examples of infections and their causative microorganism.

Learning outcomes:

When you have completed this module, and the activities included, you will have a deeper understanding of:

•     the incidence and potential impact of neonatal infection of the neonate.
•     the underpinning anatomy and physiology of immunity and why the neonate is more predisposed to infection than older children and adults.
•     how to classify neonatal infection depending on the timing, location, specific pathogen and route of transmission.
•     how to recognise the signs of infection including red flags.
•     the different types of infection that may present in the neonatal period.
•     the principles of managing neonatal infection according to guidelines.
•     the role of the midwife in recognising and managing neonatal infection within their scope of practice.

Study time: 35 minutes

Feedback from learners:

"Very relevant module"
"Very informative. I enjoyed the interactive parts of the module"

This module aligns with the Future Midwife Standards: Domains 4 and 6

Domain 4: Additional care for women and newborn infants with complications

Domain 6: The midwife as skilled practitioner

Published: November 2024