Snappe II as a predictor of neonatal morbidity and mortality in a neonatal intensive care unit at a hospital in Soweto, South Africa

Abstract

Objective: To assess the use of the SNAPPE II score in predicting morbidity and mortality in a NICU in a resource limited setting. Methods This was a prospective, cohort study conducted in the NICU at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) from 1 November 2020 to 28 February 2021. A score > 30 was associated with severe illness. Data was analysed comparing the two groups (SNAPPE II < 30 and > 30). Results One hundred and twenty five neonates were included: 78 (62.4%) and 46 (36.8%) had a SNAPPE II score <30 and >30, respectively. Neonates with scores >30 had lower 5 minute Apgar scores (p<0.001), metabolic acidosis (p<0.001), higher lactate (p<0.001), and demised (p=0.005). High SNAPPE II score was associated with mortality (OR 1.04, p<0.001). Conclusion SNAPPE II is a predictor of neonatal mortality in NICU and may be a useful tool to prognosticate and rationalize resources.