VC stresses importance of lowering state’s infant mortality rate

The significance of a newborn is understood most deeply by the mother as even a slightest sneeze causes her great concern. In such moments, paediatricians play a critical role, as newborns cannot communicate their symptoms, and doctors have to treat and provide them effective care on the basis of examination. This was said by Dr HK Aggarwal, Vice-Chancellor, Pt BD Sharma University of Health Sciences, Rohtak, while addressing the gathering at the inauguration of a four-day conference on facility-based newborn care (FBNC), organised by the Department of Neonatology at PGIMS here on Thursday.

Every paediatrician, and nursing staff, involved in neonatal care must be thoroughly trained to manage these delicate situations, especially in the ICU, the VC added.

Dr Aggarwal talked about the state’’s ongoing efforts to reduce infant mortality rate, noting that the government had been providing regular training to doctors and nursing officers. He said the current infant mortality rate of the state stood at approximately 19 per 1,000 live births, and the goal was to lower the figure to 10 by 2030.

The VC said achieving this target was only possible if medical professionals were fully trained in newborn ICU care, and delivered the best possible care to patients.

He also extended his congratulations to Dr Jagjit Dalal, Senior Professor and Head of Neonatology Department, PGIMS, Rohtak, for organising the event.

Dr Dalal delved into the objectives of the event, stating that participants would be trained on managing respiratory issues in newborns.

He explained that premature babies often faced breathing difficulties, and providing oxygen through CPAP or other non-invasive means, without inserting a tube into the windpipe, could reduce the risk of lung infections.

This approach, he added, supported better brain development and decreased the likelihood of recurrent pneumonia.

Dr Shikha, Dr Yogesh and Dr Mukesh were among those who attended the event.