Chief Executive Officer of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Robbie Rambarran on Tuesday announced a substantial reduction in neonatal deaths.
Rambarran said there has been a 60% decrease in neonatal deaths from January to September this year when compared to the same period last year.
A neonatal death refers to the death of a live-born infant within the first 28 days of life.
According to Rambarran, there were 68 deaths last year during the same period and for this year, 28 neonatal deaths were recorded.
Rambarran commended the hospital’s achievements in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, stating, “That shows that we are doing big things very good. We are getting better at the big things but the very of basic things and care we are still lagging.”
Last year, the hospital recorded its lowest maternal death record with 10 maternal deaths recorded.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a maternal death is the death of a woman during pregnancy or within 42 days of the termination of pregnancy.
However, with all of its accomplishments, Rambarran pointed to persistent issues, primarily complaints about nursing care.
“We need a break from the past where there were complaints about untidy patients, unfed patients, no vital signs done, soiled beds, linens and I can go on,” Rambarran stated.
He stressed the need to focus on enhancing the basics of patient care alongside larger improvements.
