Project Details

Effect of Kangaroo Mother Care on Neonatal Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Colonization in Ghana

Grace St. Cyr, MD

Summary

BACKGROUND: While neonatal colonization with multidrug-resistant gram-negative (MDR-GN) organisms frequently precedes invasive infections, traditional infection prevention and control (IPC) measures to reduce colonization are often challenging to implement in resource-limited settings. Identification of additional strategies to decrease MDR-GN colonization could be leveraged as sustainable IPC measures to reduce the high burden of neonatal sepsis in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). GAP: Despite an evolving body of literature demonstrating that extended maternal skin-to-skin contact through Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) reduces neonatal mortality and sepsis in LMICs, to date there are no dedicated studies evaluating the effect of KMC on neonatal MDR-GN colonization. HYPOTHESIS: My central hypothesis is that in LMICs, KMC serves as a protective factor against neonatal colonization with MDR-GN organisms acquired from the hospital environment. METHODS: This prospective cohort study will be conducted in partnership with faculty at one investigational site, the neonatal intensive care unit at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana. We will prospectively evaluate neonates and their mothers participating in KMC care, comparing the effects of KMC exposure on neonatal MDR-GN colonization prevalence. RESULTS: Pending. IMPACT: We anticipate this work could have global significance in highlighting that KMC is an effective, sustainable measure to reduce neonatal MDR-GN colonization. The proposed study will strengthen the evidence-base to support implementation of KMC in LMIC settings.